The Memphis Grizzlies are set to raise Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey to the rafters at FedExForum next March, adding another cherished member of the team's "Core Four" to their storied history. This honor will take place after the Grizzlies face off against the Miami Heat on March 15, and it marks a significant moment for the franchise and its loyal fanbase.
Allen's jersey will join those of Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol, whose numbers 50 and 33, respectively, have already been retired by the team. Allen, who played seven seasons with Memphis, becomes the third member of the Core Four to be immortalized in such a manner.
The Defensive Dynamo
Allen's NBA career spanned 14 remarkable seasons, beginning with the Boston Celtics, where he won a championship in 2008. Memphis acquired Allen in 2010 through a three-year contract with the Celtics. His impact was immediate; during his first year, he usurped O.J. Mayo's starting position and went on to earn All-Defensive honors for the first time in his career.
Known for his tenacity and defensive prowess, Allen was a staple on the NBA All-Defensive teams six times, including three First Team selections. He is second in Grizzlies history in steals, only behind Mike Conley. Additionally, Allen ranks sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds during his tenure with the Grizzlies. His defensive exploits earned him the moniker "The Grindfather," reflecting his hard-nosed playing style that embodied the grit-and-grind ethos of the Memphis squad.
A Legacy of Integrity and Challenges
Despite his contributions on the court, Allen faced significant personal challenges. In October 2021, he was charged for his involvement in a scheme to defraud the NBA’s health and welfare benefits plan. By April 2023, Allen pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, agreeing to pay back most of the defrauded money. The courts sentenced him to community service and supervision by August 2023, allowing him to avoid jail time.
For fans and the organization alike, Allen's upcoming jersey retirement offers a moment of celebration amidst past controversies. Allen had previously mentioned that this honor would occur during the 2024-25 season, making the earlier ceremony a welcomed surprise for those who have followed his career closely. "It would happen during the 2024-25 season," Allen noted, indicating the organization's regard for his lasting legacy.
Another Milestone for the Grizzlies
The ceremony promises not only to celebrate Allen's contributions but also to acknowledge his journey and redemption. As the third member of the Core Four to see his jersey ascend, Allen’s story adds another layer of richness to the Memphis Grizzlies' narrative. His fans remember not just the steals and defensive stops but the hustle, the heart, and the unwavering commitment to the game that Allen brought night in and night out.
As March 15 approaches, the anticipation among fans grows. The legacy of Tony Allen is etched into the foundation of the Memphis Grizzlies, and his jersey’s placement in the rafters will serve as a lasting tribute to his impact on the court and his indelible mark on the franchise.