Tony Allen, arrested for possession of cocaine and marijuana

What started as isolated incidents is beginning to feel like a troubling trend. In recent weeks, the saying “when one falls, they all fall” seems to be playing out among former NBA players facing legal issues off the court.

Following scandals involving Terry Rozier, Chauncey Billups, and Damon Jones, former Memphis Grizzlies standout Tony Allen has now joined the list—but for a different reason.

Allen was arrested Wednesday in Arkansas on charges of cocaine and marijuana possession. He was riding in a car with William Hampton, a Memphis resident, when police pulled them over roughly 50 miles northwest of the city. Officers discovered a package of marijuana in Allen’s possession, and a search of the vehicle turned up a cigarette box containing a powdered substance later confirmed to be cocaine.

Not Allen’s first legal run-in

This isn’t Allen’s first brush with the law. Back in August 2023, he was convicted in a federal case tied to a health insurance fraud scheme involving 18 former NBA players. He was sentenced to three years of probation and ordered to complete community service.

Tony Allen played 15 seasons in the NBA, including seven alongside Marc Gasol in Memphis. While never known for his scoring—his best season averaged just 11.5 points—Allen carved out a reputation as one of the league’s fiercest perimeter defenders. In an era before the three-point shot dominated the game, Allen’s lockdown defense earned him three All-Defensive First Team honors (2012, 2013, 2015).

In March of this year, the Grizzlies retired his No. 9 jersey, cementing his legacy in Memphis. Alongside Mike Conley, Zach Randolph, and Marc Gasol, Allen helped define a gritty, defense-first identity that made the Grizzlies one of the toughest teams of the last decade. Their style—anchored by two traditional big men—has become increasingly rare in today’s pace-and-space NBA.

From Boston glory to Memphis grit

Before his Memphis years, Allen was part of the Boston Celtics’ championship run in 2007–08. As a high-energy bench player under Doc Rivers, he gave Ray Allen valuable rest and became a defensive nightmare for opposing guards. Though his playoff minutes were limited, his intensity and hustle made him a fan favorite and a locker room spark plug.

Despite his on-court accolades, Allen’s post-retirement years have been marred by legal troubles—reminding fans that even the most respected players can struggle to leave the spotlight quietly.

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