Memphis Grizzlies to Honor Tony Allen with Jersey Retirement Ceremony
The Memphis Grizzlies have announced that Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey will be raised to the rafters at FedExForum next March. The ceremony is slated to take place after the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat on March 15, marking a significant moment in the franchise's history.
Allen will become the third member of the team's celebrated "Core Four" to receive such an honor, joining Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol. Randolph’s No. 50 and Gasol’s No. 33 jerseys have already earned their places in the rafters, and Allen’s addition underscores his invaluable contribution to the team.
Allen’s Journey with the Grizzlies
Allen, who played seven seasons with Memphis, is renowned for his defensive prowess and tenacity on the court. The Grizzlies acquired him from the Boston Celtics in 2010 on a three-year contract. During his initial season with Memphis, Allen was swiftly promoted to the starting lineup, replacing O.J. Mayo. His impact was immediate and profound, earning All-Defensive honors for the first time in his career during that inaugural season with the Grizzlies.
Throughout his tenure with Memphis, Allen exemplified defensive excellence, securing All-Defensive team honors six times, including three First Team selections. He left an indelible mark on the franchise, ranking second in steals—only behind Mike Conley—and placing sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds in Grizzlies history.
Career Highlights and Challenges
Allen's NBA career spanned 14 seasons, beginning with the Boston Celtics, where he won a championship in 2008. His time in Memphis solidified his reputation as one of the league's premier defenders, a legacy that the forthcoming jersey retirement ceremony will commemorate.
However, Allen's journey was not without its challenges. In October 2021, he faced charges 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, agreeing to repay most of the money. In August 2023, he was sentenced to community service and supervision, managing to avoid jail time.
A Historic Moment for the Franchise
Despite these challenges, Allen's contributions to the Grizzlies' success are undeniable. His retirement ceremony had been previously noted by Allen as potentially "happening during the 2024-25 season." However, the organization decided to honor him earlier, acknowledging the significant role he played in shaping the team's defensive identity.
As the Grizzlies prepare for this historic event, fans and teammates alike reflect on Allen's relentless energy, dedication, and the heart he brought to every game. His jersey will serve as a lasting reminder of a player who left everything on the court and helped elevate the Grizzlies to new heights.
Come March 15, the FedExForum will undoubtedly be filled with cheers and memories, as Tony Allen's No. 9 ascends to join the jerseys of his esteemed peers. This ceremony not only celebrates Allen's remarkable career but also cements his legacy as a cornerstone of the Memphis Grizzlies.