You know those nights that just feel…right? That’s what it was when Tony Allen’s jersey hit the rafters in Memphis. Forget the stats for a second, this was about heart. About a guy who gave it all on the court, and a city that gave it right back. It was pure, raw emotion, and a reminder of what basketball’s really about. “I’m very thankful for this moment,” Allen said, soaking it all in. “I’m going in the rafters. A lot of people don’t get this moment.”

Allen joined an elite group, becoming just the third player in franchise history to receive this honor. He now stands alongside his Core Four brothers, Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol, who were both there to witness the moment. And it wasn’t just his former teammates showing love—NBA legends and stars flooded social media with tributes, proving just how much respect Allen commands.

Kendrick Perkins, Allen’s former Celtics teammate, didn’t hold back his emotions. Taking to Instagram, Big Perk wrote, “Congratulations to my MF brother 4 life @thegrindfather9 for getting his Jersey Hung in the Rafters!!! Best Perimeter Defender I’ve ever seen.”

And Perkins wasn’t just watching from afar—he pulled up to the ceremony with his family, making sure to celebrate the moment in person. Not only that, but Perkins doubled down on the love, sharing another post with a heartfelt message.

“The Perkins family pulled up in great Fashion to support our Brother @thegrindfather9 and The Allen Family! This relationship goes beyond basketball.” Alongside his wife, Vanity, and their kids, Perkins made it clear—this was deeper than the game.

Not only that, Big Perk shared another post on Insta with Allen, addressing the crowd. “Congrats Killa with your baggy ass suit @thegrindfather9 lmao Jersey number 9 will live forever in Memphis solute,” he wrote.

And Perkins wasn’t the only one paying his respects. Former Grizzlies star Derrick Rose also chimed in, writing, “Always looked up to u. I’m proud of you Big Bro.” 

Not only that, Vince Carter also wrote, “Congrats to my guy TA9 aka Mr 1st Team All Defense. You are in the rafters forever my boy @thegrindfather9 #GritandGrind”

Allen’s journey to becoming a Memphis icon wasn’t instant, but it was undeniable. From being an under-the-radar signing in 2010 to shutting down Kevin Durant in a crucial game, he cemented his legacy with one unforgettable phrase: “All heart. Grit. Grind.” Now, that legacy is hanging where it belongs—forever.

The Memphis Grizzlies remember Tony Allen’s impact

Even after his playing days, Tony Allen has never really left the Grizzlies. He still makes time to be around the team, showing up at community events and offering support whenever he can. His presence isn’t just symbolic—he actively connects with the current roster, making sure the Grit ‘n Grind mentality stays alive in Memphis.

And the players appreciate it. “He means everything here,” Jaren Jackson Jr. said. “The Grindfather. Grit and Grind. First team. Whatever you want to say, he is everything. I’m so happy for him. He deserves all of this.”

Scotty Pippen Jr. also echoed the sentiment, recalling what made Allen so special. “I just remember his defensive intensity and his competitiveness he brought to the game. So definitely happy for him.”

It’s no surprise, considering what Allen did for the franchise. Over seven seasons, he established himself as one of the best defenders in the league. Making six All-Defensive teams, he helped turn the Grizzlies into a defensive powerhouse, setting the tone for a team that prided itself on toughness and resilience.

That impact hasn’t been forgotten. “Tony Allen’s toughness, competitive spirit, and defensive intensity energized his teammates and our fans and helped set a standard of defensive excellence that defined an era of Grizzlies basketball,” Grizzlies owner Robert Pera said. And that era, built on grit, still shapes the team’s identity today.