The Memphis Grizzlies will reach a significant milestone next March when they raise Tony Allen’s No. 9 jersey to the rafters at FedExForum. The ceremony is scheduled to take place following the Grizzlies’ game against the Miami Heat on March 15, thereby cementing the legacy of a player who became an integral part of the team's identity during his seven-season tenure.
Allen will join his former teammates Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol, becoming the third member of the Grizzlies' "Core Four" to receive this prestigious honor. Randolph’s No. 50 and Gasol’s No. 33 jerseys have already been retired, commemorating an era that helped to define the franchise's grit-and-grind ethos.
A Storied Career
Tony Allen’s NBA journey began in 2004 when he was drafted by the Boston Celtics. Over the course of his 14-season career, Allen exemplified defensive prowess, particularly during his stay in Memphis. He won an NBA championship with the Celtics in 2008, showcasing his defensive skills on a big stage before being traded to the Grizzlies in 2010. His arrival marked the beginning of a transformative period for the franchise.
Allen’s impact was felt immediately. In his first year with Memphis, he secured a starting role over O.J. Mayo and earned All-Defensive honors, the first such recognition in his career. This accolade was just the beginning, as Allen would go on to make the All-Defensive Team six times, including three First Team selections.
A Defensive Stalwart
During his time with the Grizzlies, Allen left an indelible mark on the franchise's record books. He remains second in franchise history in steals, only behind Mike Conley, and ranks sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds. Allen's defensive acumen and relentless effort on the court made him a fan favorite and a symbol of the Grizzlies' gritty playing style.
A Controversial Chapter
However, Allen's career was not without its controversies. 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, agreeing to pay back most of the money involved. In August 2023, he was sentenced to community service and supervision, ultimately avoiding jail time.
This legal misstep did not overshadow his contributions to the Grizzlies, as the organization previously mentioned that the jersey retirement would occur during the 2024-25 season. As Allen put it, "It would happen during the 2024-25 season."
Legacy and Celebration
Despite these challenges, the decision to retire Allen’s jersey underscores his significant contributions to the team and the community. The March 15 ceremony will be a poignant moment for the Grizzlies and their fans, celebrating Allen's relentless determination and defensive brilliance that defined an era for the franchise.
As the Grizzlies prepare to honor Allen, it serves as a reminder of the team's journey and the players who have left a lasting legacy. Allen’s No. 9 jersey will now hang alongside those of Randolph and Gasol, serving as a continual testament to a gritty and successful chapter in Memphis basketball history.