MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Tony Allen’s name has become synonymous with the Memphis spirit—the _grit n’grind_ that makes this city so special.
Allen had the opportunity to sit with Action News 5’s own Doc Holliday to reflect on his storied career, jersey retirement, and the journey that led home to this historic moment—a journey he notes was often filled with ebbs and flows.
“Coming from where I come from, seeing my homeboys in and out of jail, I would’ve never thought I’d get here.” Allen confided, calling to a time when he saw many hardships, “I’m glad that I had a strong-minded mother who stayed on me.”
Allen adds that he has to his family to thank: “Being there for my family was really what it was all about.”
Forever connected to Memphis, Allen also took time to reflect on the city’s charm, highlighting the southern hospitality and comfort he felt during his career.
To many, he is a basketballer with career longevity, but as for us here in Memphis, he will always be our “Grindfather.”
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