The Memphis Grizzlies have announced that Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey will be raised to the rafters at FedExForum next March, cementing his legacy within the franchise. The highly anticipated jersey retirement ceremony will take place following the Grizzlies' matchup against the Miami Heat on March 15.
Allen, revered as one of the gritty defenders and emotional leaders of the Grizzlies’ iconic "Core Four," will be the third player from that era to have his jersey retired. Previously, the Grizzlies celebrated Zach Randolph with his No. 50 jersey and Marc Gasol with his No. 33, honoring their significant contributions to the team's success.
A Defensive Stalwart
Allen, whose NBA career spanned 14 seasons, spent seven impactful years with Memphis, where he developed into one of the league's premier defenders. After starting his professional journey with the Boston Celtics and securing an NBA championship with them in 2008, Allen brought his defensive prowess to Memphis in a 2010 trade that would prove pivotal for the franchise.
In his debut season with the Grizzlies, Allen quickly earned a starting spot over O.J. Mayo, an indication of his immediate impact on the team. Recognized for his defensive talents, Allen earned All-Defensive honors for the first time that season, a prelude to the six All-Defensive team selections he would accumulate over his career, including three First Team nods.
Allen's presence on the court was felt in many facets of the game. He ranks second in Grizzlies history in steals, trailing only Mike Conley, and made his mark in offensive rebounds, finishing ninth in that category during his tenure with the team. The combination of his relentless defensive effort and leadership skills made him a cornerstone for Memphis during some of their most competitive years.
Overcoming Personal Challenges
While Allen's contributions on the court have been lauded, his post-retirement life hit a snag when he was charged in October 2021 for his involvement in a scheme to defraud the NBA’s health and welfare benefits plan. In April 2023, Allen pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, agreeing to pay back most of the money involved. By August 2023, he was sentenced to community service and supervision, avoiding jail time, and began working towards redeeming his image.
Fulfilling a Promise
The jersey retirement is a moment that Allen has eagerly anticipated. Reflecting on the planned ceremony, he previously noted, "It would happen during the 2024-25 season." However, the organization and its fans will not have to wait that long to celebrate the career of one of its most beloved players.
For Grizzlies fans, the raising of Allen's jersey will be a nostalgic journey back to the team's grit-and-grind era. The event is not just a testament to Allen's individual achievements but a nod to the collective spirit and resilience that he, alongside Randolph, Gasol, and Conley, brought to the franchise.
As the date approaches, anticipation and excitement are sure to build among the Memphis faithful who witnessed Allen's fierce competitiveness and dedication. The ceremony at FedExForum promises to be a fitting tribute to a player who gave his all for the Grizzlies, etching his name into the annals of Memphis basketball history.