MEMPHIS, Tennessee – Former Memphis Grizzlies Stalwart defensive end Tony Allen, a mainstay of the Core Four's era of success, was arrested Wednesday on drug charges in Poinsett County, Arkansas.
Allen, 43, faces two drug charges. The vehicle, driven by William Hutton, 33, of Memphis, was stopped on Interstate 555 about 50 miles northwest of Memphis.
A Poinsett County Sheriff's Office report said Allen was found in possession of a package of a leaf substance later identified as marijuana. A search of the vehicle revealed a pack of cigarettes containing a powdery substance later identified as cocaine, according to the report.
Allen played for Memphis from 2011 to 2017. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2004 after playing at Oklahoma State. He finished his career with the New Orleans Pelicans.
In August 2023, Allen pleaded guilty in a federal case involving the NBA's health insurance scheme and fraud. He was sentenced to community service and three years of probation.
The Grizzlies retired his No. 9 jersey in March, becoming the third core four player to receive the honor. Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph also had their numbers retired. The fourth member, Mike Conley, still plays for the Minnesota Timberwolves.
