Longtime NBA guard Tony Allen had his No. 9 jersey retired by the Grizzlies on Saturday night in Memphis. A defensive stalwart, the 2004 first-round pick earned the nickname "the Grindfather" for his tenacious play throughout his 15-year NBA career.

Tony Allen's Memphis Grizzlies jersey retirement was heartfelt and fun, befitting a Core Four member known as The Grindfather.

The Memphis Grizzlies' style of play is about 3-point shooting and speed. Tony Allen thinks he could fit right in and be the enforcer.

Tony Allen, whose defensive prowess and unique verbiage created the Memphis Grizzlies’ Grit ’n Grind era, was honored with the retirement of his No. 9 jersey.

Tony Allen, a member of the Core Four who played for the Memphis Grizzlies from 2011 to 2016, was a 3-time NBA All-Defensive first-team selection.

The list of attendees featured future hall of Famers and many of Allen’s former teammates. Paul Pierce, Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah were among the players who didn’t play with Allen in Memphis. Randolph, Ed Davis, Beno Udrih, Vince Carter, Quincy Pondexter and Marc Gasol all sat on stage with Allen.

This Saturday, March 15, the Memphis Grizzlies will retire Tony Allen’s #9 jersey. They will face off against the Miami Heat. Allen, known for his relentless defense, will have his jersey hanging in the rafters forever.

On and off the court, Allen turned being an NBA player into a kind of lunatic performance art, and in Memphis, he found a deeply appreciative audience.”

Giretiro sa Memphis Grizzlies ang No. 9 jersey ni defensive specialists Tony Allen niadtong Marso 16 (PH time).Si Allen mao ang ikatulo nga player nga nakadawat

Here’s the story of Tony Allen in Memphis, a special connection that came so close to never taking hold, and the crucial night where it finally did.