Grizzlies Top 5 Moments of the Decade
Signing Tony Allen
When Tony Allen signed in Memphis, no one knew how important the signing would be. No one knew he would become the center of a movement that changed a city. During his first six seasons, all spent in Boston, Allen served as a spark plug off the bench. He was a part of their 2008 championship team, but was never given big minutes on a veteran team. That all changed once he got to Memphis.
Allen’s impact was felt immediately. His tough, defensive style of play was a perfect fit in Memphis. He instantly became a crowd favorite, and energized the team. He literally established the Grit and Grind. He helped the Grizzlies compete through leadership and lockdown defense. He famously reminded the world that he was “first team all defense”. He was often tasked with stopping the best of the best. Kobe Bryant named Allen as the toughest defender he ever faced.
Allen became known as “the Grindfather” in Memphis. Every night, Memphis fans packed “the Grindhouse” to rally around Allen and the Grizzlies. There’s a reason no one else will wear number 9 again in Memphis. No player embodies the era better than Tony Allen. His place in Memphis history is cemented forever.