Grizzlies set to retire Tony Allen’s jersey quantity

The Memphis Grizzlies introduced that they may retire Tony Allen’s No. 9 jersey on March 15, following their recreation in opposition to the Miami Warmth on the FedExForum. Allen, referred to as the “Grindfather,” will change into the third participant in franchise historical past to obtain this honor, becoming a member of former teammates Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol. Randolph’s No. 50 was retired in December 2021, and Gasol’s No. 33 was retired in April 2024.

Tony Allen’s arrival in Memphis in 2010 marked a turning level for the Grizzlies. After signing as a free agent, Allen helped set up the workforce’s signature “Grit and Grind” id, recognized for its emphasis on protection and bodily play. His relentless vitality and defensive prowess made an instantaneous affect, serving to Memphis safe its first-ever playoff collection win in 2011 and main the workforce to seven consecutive postseason appearances from 2010 to 2017.

Allen was a key determine within the Grizzlies’ run to the Western Convention Finals in 2013, a landmark achievement for the franchise. Throughout his tenure, Memphis constantly ranked among the many high defensive groups within the league, ending within the high 10 in factors allowed in six of Allen’s seven seasons. The 2012-13 season was significantly notable, because the Grizzlies set a franchise document with 56 wins and led the NBA in fewest factors allowed per recreation, holding opponents to only 89.3 factors.

Grizzlies set to retire Tony Allen’s No. 9 jersey following recreation in opposition to the Warmth

Extensively considered the most effective defenders of his technology, Allen earned six NBA All-Defensive Workforce choices throughout his time with the Grizzlies. This included three First Workforce honors in 2011-12, 2012-13, and 2014-15, in addition to three Second Workforce nods. His depth on protection helped form Memphis into one of many league’s most feared groups, together with his contributions going past the stat sheet.

Along with his defensive accolades, Allen’s particular person numbers place him among the many franchise’s all-time greats. He ranks second in Grizzlies historical past in profession steals, amassing 762 throughout his time in Memphis. He additionally ranks within the high 10 in a number of different classes, together with video games performed (462), offensive rebounds (741), and blocks (217), additional cementing his legacy throughout the group.

Tony Allen’s jersey retirement underscores his profound affect on the workforce and town of Memphis. His vitality and dedication to the sport made him a fan favourite, and his management was instrumental in guiding the Grizzlies to probably the most profitable stretch in franchise historical past.

The jersey retirement ceremony on March 15 will present followers with a chance to rejoice Allen’s contributions and honor his place as one of many cornerstones of the Grizzlies’ rise to prominence within the NBA.