Memphis Grizzlies Announce Jersey Retirement for Former Pillar

In 2017, “The Grindfather” spoke about what playing for Memphis meant for him.

“I laid my mark down, considered (Memphis) home. The organization was A-1,” Allen said. “I’ve got a lot of friends and family in the city. It’s the ‘Grit and Grind’, the whole era, just the groundwork. Obviously, it’s a dream come true to have your number retired in the NBA.

“I just want to thank everybody who was a part of the movement. I appreciate it.” […]

With the Grizzlies, Allen, Gasol, Zach Randolph, Mike Conley, and Rudy Gay ushered in a new era of basketball in Memphis–the “Grit and Grind” era. The team received this title due to their intense and tenacious defensive style.

NBA legend Kobe Bryant has publicly praised Allen’s defense in the past, citing his “uncommon” defensive mentality.

He’s fundamentally sound defensively and he plays harder than everybody else defensively. He has a competitive desire to compete individually. That’s very uncommon. Most defensive players I face want help all the time. I’ve never heard him ask for help. He likes taking the challenge.

Memphis Grizzlies Announce Jersey Retirement for Former Pillar

Tony Allen’s Memphis Grizzlies Career

After spending the first six seasons of his career with the Boston Celtics, Allen signed with the Grizzlies in 2010. Allen immediately received a larger role and became an important player on the team. With Memphis, the former NBA champion was selected to six NBA All-Defensive Teams-three First Team selections and three Second Team selections. Additionally, he finished top-10 in Defensive Player of the Year voting in five of his seven seasons with the Grizzlies. With Allen on the roster, the team made the playoffs each year, advancing to the Western Conference Finals one time.

In 2017, the Chicago native signed with the New Orleans Pelicans, ending his Grizzlies tenure after seven seasons.

The Last Word

During his prime, Allen was one of the best defenders in the NBA. His ability to lock down the opposing team’s best scorer on a nightly basis was impressive. While he may not have many accolades throughout his Grizzlies career, it is clear he was an essential addition to their core.