The Memphis Grizzlies recently announced their intent to retire the jersey of the team’s former forward in Tony Allen. It was a fitting nod to one of the best stoppers the NBA has seen in recent years and someone who played a huge part in shaping the team’s grit-and-grind culture.

Allen is one of few players in NBA history who had as much influence in transforming a team through sheer hard work and defensive tenacity. Ben Wallace and Dennis Rodman did it for the Detroit Pistons during their respective eras, to name some.

Now part of the New Orleans Pelicans, Tony Allen looks to impart his tough-as-nail attitude and veteran leadership to a team that is gifted with talent, but bereft of identity. Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins are already imposing figures by themselves, but an extra push coming from Allen could catapult the Pelicans to another level.

Despite having the Grizzlies now behind him, Tony Allen still feels deeply for the franchise that brought his career to relevance as he did to the team. Speaking to reporters, a visibly emotional Allen fought hard to hold back his tears while raving about his appreciation toward the Grizzlies’ gesture.

Tony Allen is indeed a first-class person to have around as a teammate. And the Pelicans are hoping that his selfless attitude and exemplary workmanship would rub off on his young teammates as they try to hold their heads above water in a hotly-competitive Western Conference.