Memphis Grizzlies to Honor Tony Allen with Jersey Retirement
In a long-awaited move, the Memphis Grizzlies will raise Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey to the rafters at FedExForum next March, solidifying his legacy as an integral part of the franchise's history. Allen, a pivotal figure in the Grizzlies' ascension during the Grit-and-Grind era, will become the third member of the team's "Core Four" to receive such an honor.
The jersey retirement ceremony is scheduled to take place after the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat on March 15, making Allen's recognition a highlighted event for the franchise and its fans. Previously, the team has retired Zach Randolph’s No. 50 and Marc Gasol’s No. 33 jerseys. Allen’s upcoming jersey retirement marks yet another acknowledgment of the critical role these players played in shaping the team’s identity.
Allen spent seven memorable seasons with the Grizzlies, having joined the team in 2010 from the Boston Celtics. During his time in Memphis, he became known for his tenacious defense and leadership on the court. Allen began his NBA career with the Boston Celtics, where he won a championship in 2008. His performance caught the eye of Memphis, who acquired him in 2010 on a three-year contract.
Upon arrival in Memphis, Allen quickly solidified his spot in the starting lineup, taking the place of O.J. Mayo. His impact was immediate and profound; in his first year with the Grizzlies, he earned All-Defensive honors for the first time in his career. This achievement foreshadowed an illustrious career characterized by defensive prowess. Allen would go on to make the All-Defensive team six times, including three selections to the First Team.
Allen’s presence on the court was felt in various ways. He ranks second in Grizzlies history in steals, trailing only Mike Conley. Additionally, he is sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds during his tenure with the team. His leadership and relentless defensive energy were instrumental in the Grizzlies' success during the early 2010s.
However, Allen's post-NBA life has not been without controversy. In October 2021, he was charged for his involvement in a scheme to defraud the NBA’s health and welfare benefits plan. Allen pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud in April 2023, agreeing to pay back most of the money. By August 2023, he was sentenced to community service and supervision, avoiding jail time. Despite these off-court issues, the decision to retire his jersey underscores the indelible mark he left on the franchise.
When asked about the timing of the jersey retirement, Allen had previously noted, "It would happen during the 2024-25 season." While the ceremony will occur a bit earlier than he anticipated, it will nonetheless be a moment of celebration for Allen, the team, and Grizzlies fans who fondly remember his contributions.
The upcoming ceremony is expected to draw significant attention and gather many of Allen’s former teammates, along with fans who witnessed his defensive brilliance and sheer determination on the court. His No. 9 jersey will forever hang alongside those of Randolph and Gasol, serving as a testament to the grit and determination that defined an era of Memphis basketball.
The anticipation builds as the March 15 date approaches, promising an emotional night at FedExForum where the city of Memphis and Grizzlies fans will have the opportunity to express their gratitude to a player who gave his all to the game and the community.