Tony Allen’s No. 9 Jersey to Be Retired by Memphis Grizzlies
In a thrilling announcement for Memphis Grizzlies fans, the team is set to raise Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey to the rafters at the FedExForum next March. This honor marks Allen as the third member of the Grizzlies' famed "Core Four" to receive such recognition, following in the illustrious footsteps of Zach Randolph’s No. 50 and Marc Gasol’s No. 33 jerseys, which have already been retired.
Allen will receive this honor after the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat on March 15, a moment that promises to be both emotional and celebratory for the 41-year-old and the fans who have long cherished his contributions to the team. “It would happen during the 2024-25 season,” Allen had previously hinted, but the ceremony has now been confirmed for the earlier date.
Career Highlights with Memphis
Tony Allen, who played seven seasons with Memphis, was renowned for his defensive tenacity and relentless energy on the court. He joined the Grizzlies in 2010 after Memphis acquired him from the Boston Celtics on a three-year contract. Soon after, he made an immediate impact by securing a spot in the starting lineup over O.J. Mayo. Allen’s defensive prowess was quickly recognized, as he earned All-Defensive honors for the first time in his career during his inaugural season with the Grizzlies.
During his tenure with Memphis, Allen was selected to the All-Defensive team six times, including three First Team selections. These accolades highlight his dedication and skill on the defensive end of the floor, making him a standout player not just for the Grizzlies, but within the NBA as a whole. Additionally, Allen ranks second in Grizzlies history in steals, trailing only Mike Conley, and is notable for his position in other statistical categories, ranking sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds in franchise history.
A Stalwart Defender and Championship Pedigree
Prior to his time in Memphis, Allen began his NBA journey with the Boston Celtics, where he played a significant role in their 2008 championship run. His contributions to the team’s defensive schemes were crucial, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s premier defenders. This championship experience brought invaluable leadership and a winning mentality to the Grizzlies, further endearing him to fans and teammates alike.
Off-Court Legal Troubles
While Allen’s on-court achievements are commendable, his career has also been marred by off-court legal troubles. In October 2021, Allen was charged for his involvement in a scheme to defraud the NBA’s health and welfare benefits plan. By April 2023, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, agreeing to pay back most of the money. In August 2023, Allen was sentenced to community service and supervised release, thus avoiding jail time. Despite these challenges, the Grizzlies organization and its fan base have chosen to honor his tremendous impact and contributions to the team.
A Legacy Cemented
The retirement of Tony Allen’s jersey is a testament to his significant role in shaping the identity and culture of the Memphis Grizzlies. His dedication, defensive excellence, and spirited play were instrumental in establishing the team’s “Grit and Grind” ethos, which came to define an entire era for the franchise. As the team prepares to celebrate Allen’s legacy next March, it stands as a moment of reflection and appreciation for a player who gave his all for the city of Memphis.
Fans, former teammates, and the entire basketball community will undoubtedly look forward to witnessing Allen’s No. 9 taking its rightful place alongside the jerseys of Randolph and Gasol, forever enshrining his contributions in the annals of Grizzlies history.