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

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, whose defensive prowess and unique verbiage created the Memphis Grizzlies' Grit 'n Grind era, was honored Saturday night with the retirement of his No. 9 jersey. He is just the third Memphis player to receive the honor,

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.

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.”

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.

Tony Allen paused to ponder what to say next. "That's a good question," the former Memphis Grizzlies standout said. The question was simple, but thought-provoking: What would Tony Allen look like on the current Grizzlies team?

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.

Former Memphis Grizzlies star Tony Allen fought emotions, tears at screening of "The Grindfather," a team-produced documentary of his journey.