NASHVILLE, TN – January 21, 2025 – Former Memphis Grizzlies star Tony Allen has been named to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025. Allen was told of the news Tuesday during his weekly appearance on the Chris Vernon Show in Memphis. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, pays homage to the state’s rich sports history and their impact within the community.
“Tony Allen epitomized the Grit and Grind Era of the Memphis Grizzlies,” said Brad Willis, Executive Director of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. “He left a mark on the Grizzlies franchise and the entire NBA, and we’re very excited to have him as part of our 2025 Class of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.”
Allen was born in Chicago, and played collegiately at Oklahoma State, being named Big 12 Player of the Year before being drafted in the first round of the NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics in 2004. Allen won an NBA Championship with the Celtics in 2008, before signing with Memphis during the 2010 offseason. During his time with the Grizzlies, Allen was named to the NBA’S All Defensive First Team in 2012, 2013, and 2015, and was named to the NBA’s All Defensive Second Team in 2011, 2016, and 2017. Dubbed “The Grindfather” by teammates and fans, Allen cemented himself amongst the all-time favorites in Grizzlies history. His number 9 will be retired by the team in March of this year.
Allen joins Elston Turner, George Pitts and Bob Brown as announced members of the Class of 2025. The full 2025 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class will be released over the coming weeks.
The 2025 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony, presented by the Tennessee Titans, will be held Saturday, July 19nd at the Omni Nashville Downtown. Ticket information will be announced soon.
About the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, enshrines and honors athletes, teams, coaches, sports writers and sports administrators who have made an impact on the history of Tennessee sports. The Hall serves as a platform to connect athletes, coaches, sports fans, and supporters by acknowledging life achievements implemented through sports. The Hall celebrates athletes of all forms, from all across the state. Additionally, Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame aspires to educate youth about the importance of healthy habits and the positive impact they have on lifestyle choices. For more information, visit www.tshf.net.
About the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation
The Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products. Since January 20, 2004, the Lottery has raised more than $7.6 billion to fund designated education programs, including college grants, scholarships, Drive to 55 initiatives and after-school programs. In addition to the educational beneficiaries, players have won more than $20.8 billion in prizes and Lottery retailers have earned more than $2 billion in commissions. For additional information, visit tnlottery.com and follow the TEL on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.
