Next March, the Memphis Grizzlies will celebrate another milestone in their franchise history, raising Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey to the rafters at FedExForum. The anticipated ceremony will honor Allen’s contributions to the team, solidifying his legacy among the esteemed "Core Four."
Allen, who played seven significant seasons with Memphis, will become the third member of this iconic quartet to have his jersey retired. His No. 9 will join Zach Randolph’s No. 50 and Marc Gasol’s No. 33, both of which are already immortalized in the arena. This tribute underscores the pivotal role Allen played in elevating the Grizzlies to prominence during his tenure with the team.
A Career Worth Honoring
The ceremony, set to unfold after the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat on March 15, will celebrate Allen’s remarkable NBA journey. From humble beginnings with the Boston Celtics to his triumphant tenure with Memphis, Allen's career spanned 14 seasons. His NBA journey began with the Celtics, where he claimed a championship ring in 2008 before Memphis acquired him in 2010 on a three-year contract.
Allen’s impact was immediate. In his first year with the Grizzlies, he replaced O.J. Mayo as a starter and quickly earned All-Defensive honors—the first of many accolades during his stay in Memphis. Over the years, Allen would be named to the All-Defensive team six times, including three First Team selections, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s premier defenders.
Defensive Prowess and Team Contributions
Allen's tenure with the Grizzlies was marked by both defensive brilliance and consistent performance. He is second in the franchise’s history in steals, trailing only Mike Conley. Additionally, Allen ranks sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds for the team, highlighting his all-around contributions on the court.
While Allen’s on-court achievements are well-documented, his journey has not been without its challenges. In October 2021, Allen faced charges for his involvement in a scheme to defraud the NBA’s health and welfare benefits plan. Despite this setback, Allen maintained his integrity and, by April 2023, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, agreeing to pay back most of the money. By August 2023, he was sentenced to community service and supervision, allowing him to avoid jail time.
Looking to the Ceremony
As the Grizzlies prepare to honor their defensive stalwart, the upcoming jersey retirement serves as a moment of reflection for both the player and the franchise. Allen had previously mentioned that the jersey retirement would take place during the 2024-25 season, making this early ceremony a pleasant surprise for fans and the team alike.
The retirement of Tony Allen's jersey not only pays homage to his individual accomplishments but also commemorates an era where the Grizzlies emerged as a formidable force in the NBA. Allen’s defensive intensity and dedication made him a fan favorite and a linchpin in Memphis' success during his years with the team.
This honor stands as a testament to Tony Allen's lasting impact on the Grizzlies and the defense-first mentality he brought to the team. On March 15, as his No. 9 jersey ascends to its well-deserved place in the rafters, both Allen and the Memphis Grizzlies will celebrate a career defined by grit, perseverance, and excellence.