The Memphis Grizzlies are set to immortalize one of their cornerstone players, Tony Allen, by raising his No. 9 jersey to the rafters at FedExForum next March. This honor cements Allen's legacy in Memphis, where he spent seven impactful seasons, laying the groundwork for the team’s renowned grit and grind ethos.
Allen's ascension to the Grizzlies' pantheon is significant, as he becomes the third member of the team’s "Core Four" to receive this accolade. His jersey will join those of Zach Randolph’s No. 50 and Marc Gasol’s No. 33, reflecting the pivotal roles these players had in shaping the franchise's modern identity.
The highly anticipated jersey retirement ceremony is scheduled following the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat on March 15. The evening promises to be a memorable one for fans and former teammates alike, who will gather to celebrate Allen's contributions to the team and the community.
Allen's Journey with the Grizzlies
Allen's NBA journey is one of perseverance and defensive brilliance. Before making his mark in Memphis, he spent the early years of his career with the Boston Celtics, winning an NBA championship with them in 2008. The Grizzlies acquired Allen from Boston in 2010 on a three-year contract, a move that would significantly bolster their defensive lineup.
In his inaugural season with the Grizzlies, Allen quickly proved his worth. He replaced O.J. Mayo as a starter, setting the tone for his tenure with the team. That same season, he earned the first of his six All-Defensive team selections, showcasing his tenacity and skill on the court. Among these honors, Allen claimed three First Team selections, underlining his elite status as a defender.
Throughout his seven seasons in Memphis, Allen became a defensive stalwart and fan favorite. He ranks second in franchise history in steals, trailing only Mike Conley. Additionally, Allen places sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds during his time with the Grizzlies, underscoring his versatility and endurance.
Legacy and Controversies
Allen's career, however, has not been without its challenges. In October 2021, he faced legal trouble for his involvement in a scheme to defraud the NBA’s health and welfare benefits plan. The case culminated in April 2023, when Allen pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud. He agreed to repay most of the money, and by August 2023, he was sentenced to community service and supervision, avoiding jail time. Despite these issues, his contributions on the court and in the community continue to resonate with fans and the organization.
A Celebration Long-Awaited
The announcement of Allen’s jersey retirement comes as a heartfelt moment for the Grizzlies and their supporters. Allen himself had previously mentioned that the event would take place during the 2024-25 season. Yet, the decision to retire his jersey sooner reflects a desire to honor his legacy promptly and fittingly.
The ceremony will not only commemorate Allen’s achievements but also celebrate the era of Grizzlies basketball characterized by resilience and grit. It serves as a reminder of the indelible impact Tony Allen has made—not just statistically but culturally—on a franchise that continues to evolve while respecting its storied past.
As the date approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be an emotional and celebratory night. Fans, former teammates, and the Memphis community will once again rally behind the player whose defense-first mentality embodied the spirit of their beloved Grizzlies.
In the annals of Memphis basketball, the No. 9 will now hang proudly, a testament to Tony Allen's enduring legacy and the hard work that defines the heart of this storied team. March 15 will be more than a game night; it will be a celebration of history and the indomitable spirit of Tony Allen.