“Grit ‘n’ Grind.” This phrase has not only defined the culture of the Memphis Grizzlies over the last 7 years, but also the culture of the city of Memphis as well. Thanks to Tony Allen, the birth of this movement can be traced back to one certain game. It appeared to be a meaningless regular season game, but it would help define Memphis culture in way that no one could have expected.
The Start of Movement: February 8, 2011
Free agent acquisition Tony Allen was having a rough time fitting in with the Memphis Grizzlies. For most of the season, he had been playing behind Sam Young and Xavier Henry (remember when Sam Young started in the playoffs?