Tony Allen’s No. 9 Jersey to be Retired by Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies are set to enshrine another key figure from their beloved “Core Four” into the rafters at FedExForum. Next March, Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey will be raised, joining the ranks of legends Zach Randolph (No. 50) and Marc Gasol (No. 33), both of whom have already been honored by the franchise. The much-anticipated ceremony is slated to follow the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat on March 15.
Having cemented his legacy during a robust seven-season tenure with Memphis, Allen's connection with the team and the community remains indelible. His contributions to the Grizzlies' grit-and-grind era were monumental, positioning him as a defensive stalwart in the league.
An NBA Journey
Allen's illustrious NBA career spanned 14 seasons, beginning his journey with the Boston Celtics. The defensive ace tasted championship glory early, winning an NBA title with the Celtics in 2008. His trajectory changed when Memphis acquired him from Boston in 2010 on a three-year contract. His arrival marked a cornerstone shift for the Grizzlies' defensive philosophy.
In an immediate impact move, Allen was swiftly promoted to a starting role, replacing O.J. Mayo. His influence manifestly shifted the team dynamics, earning All-Defensive honors in his first season with Memphis—an accolade that would become a recurring theme. Over time, Allen accrued six All-Defensive team selections, including three First Team acknowledgments. His prowess on the defensive end made him a linchpin, defending the best perimeter players night in and night out.
Legacy Beyond Statistics
Allen’s statistics with the Grizzlies underscore his profound influence. He stands second in franchise history in steals, trailing only Mike Conley. Additionally, he ranks sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds during his Memphian saga. These numbers, however, only begin to tell the tale of his impact. To Grizzlies fans, Allen represented the very essence of the grit-and-grind mentality—a relentless, hard-nosed defender leaving it all on the court.
In spite of his on-court accolades, Allen’s post-retirement life encountered controversy. In October 2021, he faced charges for his involvement in defrauding 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 defrauded funds. Subsequently, in August 2023, Allen was sentenced to community service and supervision, managing to avoid jail time. These incidents, although significant, do little to diminish his on-court legacy and the fond memories held by Grizzlies supporters.
A Community Icon
Notably, Allen previously commented that the jersey retirement ceremony might occur in the 2024-25 season. As it turns out, Grizzlies fans have less time to wait to witness their defensive juggernaut's number ascend to the rafters, marking a celebration of his unparalleled contributions to the franchise.
For Tony Allen, the upcoming ceremony is more than just a personal accolade. It signifies the recognition of an era where Memphis basketball embraced a rugged, defensive identity—a time when Allen epitomized the heart and soul of an underdog team that defied expectations. His jersey retirement is a testament to the lasting impression he left on the court and in the wider Memphis community.
As preparations for the March ceremony gear up, fans will be reminded not just of the defensive stops, steals, and hustle plays, but also of a player who embodied the spirit of Memphis. Tony Allen's No. 9 rising to the rafters serves as a beacon of his indomitable spirit, passion, and the countless memories forged in the heart of Grizzlies' territory.