Tony Allen's No. 9 Jersey to Join Memphis Grizzlies Honors
In a celebration that has been long awaited by Memphis Grizzlies fans and NBA enthusiasts alike, Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey is set to be raised to the rafters at FedExForum next March. The retirement ceremony, scheduled after the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat on March 15, marks a significant moment for Allen, who solidified his reputation as one of the most tenacious defenders in the league during his time with Memphis.
Allen will be the third member of the Grizzlies' iconic "Core Four" to receive this accolade, joining Zach Randolph, whose No. 50 jersey and Marc Gasol, whose No.33 jersey have already been retired. This trio, alongside Mike Conley, helped shape the identity of the Grizzlies, bringing grit and grind to the forefront of Memphis basketball culture.
Allen’s Journey to Memphis
Tony Allen's NBA career spanned 14 seasons, beginning with the Boston Celtics, where he started his professional journey and won a championship in 2008. Memphis acquired Allen from Boston in 2010 on a three-year contract, a move that would prove pivotal for both the player and the franchise.
Upon his arrival in Memphis, Allen quickly made his mark. In his first year, he moved into the starting lineup, replacing O.J. Mayo. His defensive prowess was unmatched; he earned All-Defensive honors for the first time in his career during his inaugural season with the Grizzlies. Over the years, he would be named to the All-Defensive team six times, including three First Team selections.
Legacy of Defense
Allen's impact on the Grizzlies extends well beyond statistics, though his numbers are impressive. He ranks second in Grizzlies history in steals, behind only Mike Conley. Additionally, he sits sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds during his tenure with Memphis. Allen's dedication and defensive skills were instrumental in fostering the team's hard-nosed identity.
Challenges Off the Court
In recent years, Allen's legacy was somewhat overshadowed by legal troubles. 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 and agreed to repay most of the misappropriated funds. In August 2023, he was sentenced to community service and supervision, thus avoiding jail time. Despite these challenges, the Grizzlies have chosen to honor his contributions on the court with this jersey retirement.
Allen had previously noted that the jersey retirement would take place during the 2024-25 season, but fans will be pleased to see the event scheduled earlier, allowing them to celebrate the contributions of a player who has been synonymous with the team's defensive identity.
The jersey retirement ceremony promises to be a memorable occasion, underscoring Tony Allen's significant contributions to the Grizzlies and the broader NBA community. As his No. 9 jersey ascends to the rafters, it will serve as a lasting tribute to his impact on the game and a reminder of the grit and grind era that he so effectively embodied.