Tony Allen was the heart and soul of the Grizzlies. His relentless defense and unshakable intensity saw the  “Grit and Grind” era of the Memphis Grizzlies. Kobe Bryant once called him one of the most challenging defenders he had ever faced. Going against the elites of the game wasn’t easy, but Allen didn’t give up. Every night, he showed up and displayed why he is one of the most beloved in the Grizzlies fandom. Celebrations have been above and beyond for the fans as the franchise finally honored the legend by retiring his jersey. But it seems some fans who didn’t understand the true value of the player are upset about it.

Paying homage to the defensive prowess Allen had, the franchise retired his No. 9 jersey which he wore and led the team in the 2010s. The Big 12 Tournament MVP spent half of his 14-year career playing for the Grizzlies. Allen is the third Memphis Grizzlies player to get his jersey retired by the franchise. The first two legends were Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol. 

The fourth player who could join the roster is currently playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Gasol was honored in April, while Randolph had the honor back in December 2021. These were the core four players of the team. Both Gasol and Randolph were present at the jersey retirement event for Allen. “I’m very thankful for this moment. I’m going in the rafters. A lot of people don’t get this moment,” Allen said. 

Fans present at the event were seen cheering for the legend. Allen was selected for both the NBA All-Defensive First Team and the NBA All-Defensive Second Team three times. He used to study his opponents to be able to guard the players. The Grizzlies players also showed love for the legend. The current roster is one of the best the franchise has ever had. 

After paying homage to the NBA legend, Ja Morant explained how the team needs the same Grit and Grind back. That’s how important Allen was for the team. However, some fans have expressed their disappointment on social media. 

Fans are upset over Tony Allen’s Jersey retirement 

The Grindfather was drafted by the Boston Celtics as the 25th overall pick. His shooting was a bit bizarre, but he showed excellence in defense. However, an upset fan wrote, “How awful must a teams history be when they’re retiring Tony Allens jersey.  I mean they seriously retired Tony Allens jersey lolol.”

During seven seasons with the team, his defense was among the best in the league’s history. He clearly led the team which had a slow pace earlier. During his tenure, he ensured the best defense for the team. But this one netizen wrote, “This wild tho. Only 7 years ? I like him but idk about all this.”

His defense-first gained traction when he guarded Kevin Durant. Playing against LeBron James and Bryant, he went on to become the elite perimeter defender for the Grizzlies. But this netizen was harsh with the criticism and wrote, “7 years. No all star. No hall of fame. Didn’t lead the team in scoring. Just strapped up every night and full effort. This is huge and should be taught in AAU across the nation.” Another netizen wrote, “Everybody jerseys don’t need to be retired.”

During his tenure, the Grizzlies became one of the toughest teams with impressive defense. “Aint no way!! He wasn’t THAT good!” another fan wrote. After the games, he used to say, “All heart. Grit. Grind.” This was a team slogan that was born during his time, and he was nicknamed the Grindfather. While some of the fans might have expressed disappointment, several fans and netizens also came in defense. A fan wrote, “well deserved. he always gave my Thunder problems 🔥” What is your take on this?