Memphis Grizzlies to retire Tony Allen's jersey

What's the story?

Earlier on Thursday morning (local time), the Memphis Grizzlies announced that they would be retiring the No.9 jersey of their former guard Tony Allen. Tony Allen played seven of his 13 years in the NBA for the Grizzlies

"We are proud that @aa000G9's #9 jersey will hang in the rafters of @FedExForum alongside Zach’s one day.”https://t.co/hEpfJDtuYe pic.twitter.com/zc2UuIOcgL

— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) October 12, 2017

In Case you didn't know

During the offseason, it was expected that Tony Allen would make a return to the Grizzlies but he eventually struck a deal for $2.3 millions with the New Orleans Pelicans as the Grizzlies decided to move away from both Allen and Zach Randolph. Despite being on a new team and winning his only NBA championship with the 2008 Boston Celtics, there's no denying what he meant to the Grizzlies.

Thank you to every fan and every person in the @memgrizz organization. I love each and every one of you. #AllHeartGritGrind #GnG https://t.co/haDMLR4gzd

— Tony Allen (@aa000G9) October 12, 2017

With the combination of Allen, Zach Randolph, and Marc Gasol, the Grizzlies established a culture of toughness and tenacity that was nicknamed Grit and Grind. Memphis was also the place Tony Allen got the opportunity to prove himself as one of the toughest defenders in the league receiving NBA All-Defensive First-Team honors in 2012, 2013, 2015 and NBA All-Defensive Second Team honors in 2011, 2016, 2017.

.@aa000G9’s emotional reaction to having his jersey retired in Memphis. pic.twitter.com/skSGoPaFLn

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) October 12, 2017

What's Next?

On a new team, at the age of 35, Allen looks to help a New Orleans Pelicans team that is desperate for help at the wing position. The general consensus is that he may not have much left in the tank for the team, that will be facing stiff competition in the Western Conference.

Author's take?

Tony Allen may not be considered a star caliber player but it good to see a player be acknowledged for the hard work and dedication he provided to a team.