In a gesture that cements his legacy with the Memphis Grizzlies, Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey will be hoisted to the rafters at FedExForum next March. This highly anticipated event marks Allen as the third member of the team's "Core Four" to receive this prestigious honor. Fans will see his jersey join Zach Randolph’s No. 50 and Marc Gasol’s No. 33, solidifying his status as a key figure in the franchise's history.
The jersey retirement ceremony is scheduled to take place following the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat on March 15. This celebration will be a fitting tribute to Allen, who played seven impactful seasons with Memphis.
Allen's Grizzlies Tenure
Tony Allen’s NBA career spanned 14 seasons, but it was his time with the Memphis Grizzlies that defined his professional trajectory. Originally starting his career with the Boston Celtics, Allen won an NBA championship in 2008 before joining Memphis in 2010 on a three-year contract. In his first year, he impressed not only the fans but also the coaching staff, securing a starting position over O.J. Mayo and making an immediate impact on the court.
Allen’s defensive prowess came to full fruition in Memphis. During his inaugural season with the Grizzlies, he earned All-Defensive honors for the first time in his career. Over his tenure with the team, Allen was named to the All-Defensive team six times, including three First Team selections, underscoring his reputation as a defensive stalwart.
Statistically, Allen has left an indelible mark on the Grizzlies' records. He ranks second in franchise history in steals, trailing only Mike Conley. Additionally, he is sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds, metrics that highlight his consistency and aggressive play style.
Challenges Off the Court
While his on-court achievements are celebrated, Allen's journey has also encountered significant off-court challenges. In October 2021, Allen was charged for his involvement in a scheme to defraud the NBA’s health and welfare benefits plan. In April 2023, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, agreeing to repay most of the illicit gains. Consequently, by August 2023, Allen was sentenced to community service and supervision, narrowly avoiding jail time.
Despite these setbacks, the Grizzlies organization and its fanbase remain committed to celebrating his contributions to the team. Allen had previously indicated that the jersey retirement would occur during the 2024-25 season, making the March 2024 ceremony a slightly earlier-than-anticipated honor. "It would happen during the 2024-25 season," he noted previously, reflecting his anticipation and gratitude for the recognition.
A Legacy Sealed
Allen's durable legacy in Memphis is a testament to his resilience, hard work, and defensive mastery on the court. His jersey retirement next March ensures that his contributions to the team will be remembered by future generations of Grizzlies fans. For a player whose career has been marked by awards, accolades, and a fair share of personal trials, this honor represents a profound acknowledgment of his impact and journey.