Tony Allen's No. 9 Jersey to Be Raised to the Rafters
The Memphis Grizzlies are set to honor a key figure in their franchise history, as Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey will ascend to the FedExForum rafters next March. This retirement marks a significant tribute to Allen's significant contributions to the team during his tenure.
Allen will become the third member of the storied "Core Four" to receive this prestigious recognition. Previously, the Grizzlies have retired Zach Randolph’s No. 50 and Marc Gasol’s No. 33 jerseys, solidifying their impact on the team's legacy.
The highly anticipated jersey retirement ceremony is scheduled for March 15, following the Grizzlies' game against the Miami Heat. The atmosphere is set to be electric as fans come together to celebrate Allen’s indelible mark on the franchise.
A Storied Career with the Grizzlies
Allen, who played seven seasons with Memphis, quickly became a fan favorite and an essential part of the team's defensive identity. His NBA career extended over 14 seasons, beginning with the Boston Celtics, where he won a championship in 2008. Allen transitioned to Memphis in 2010 under a three-year contract after being acquired from Boston.
The move proved to be a masterstroke for the Grizzlies. In his inaugural season in Memphis, Allen earned a spot in the starting lineup, replacing O.J. Mayo. His defensive prowess was immediately recognized, earning All-Defensive honors for the first time in his career.
During his time with the Grizzlies, Allen became one of the premier defenders in the league. He was named to the All-Defensive team six times, including three First Team selections. His tenacity and skill on the defensive end made him a cornerstone of Memphis basketball during his tenure.
Statistically, Allen ranks second in Grizzlies history for steals, trailing only Mike Conley. He is also sixth in games played and ninth in offensive rebounds for the franchise, underscoring his all-around impact on the court.
Challenges Off the Court
Allen's journey hasn't been without its challenges. In October 2021, he faced charges related to a scheme to defraud the NBA’s health and welfare benefits plan. In April 2023, Allen pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, and he agreed to repay most of the money involved.
By August 2023, Allen had been sentenced to community service and supervision, allowing him to avoid jail time. This chapter in his life has been a difficult one, but it hasn't overshadowed his contributions and legacy on the court.
Looking Forward to the Ceremony
The announcement of the jersey retirement was slightly ahead of Allen’s initial expectations. He had previously mentioned that the ceremony would take place during the 2024-25 season. Nevertheless, the news has sparked excitement among Grizzlies fans and NBA enthusiasts alike.
March 15 promises to be a memorable night for the Memphis Grizzlies organization and its supporters as they honor Tony Allen. The night will undoubtedly stir emotions as the team and fans reflect on Allen’s illustrious career and the indelible mark he left on Memphis basketball.