Masai Ujiri and Toronto Raptors Agree to Part Ways

After over a decade at the helm of the Toronto Raptors’ basketball operations, Masai Ujiri will not return to the organization in either his role as Team President or Vice Chairman.

Ujiri’s departure had been speculated for months – first hinted at by Marc Stein in May – when he emerged as a leading candidate for the Atlanta Hawks’ vacant president of basketball operations position. That speculation now becomes reality, marking the end of an era in Toronto.

Since joining the franchise in 2013, Ujiri played a pivotal role in shaping the Raptors into one of the NBA’s most respected organizations. His tenure culminated in the historic 2019 championship season – the first and only NBA title in the franchise’s history.

“During his 13 seasons with the Raptors, Masai has helped transform the organization on the court and has been an inspirational leader off it,” said Keith Pelley, President and CEO of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, in a statement. “He brought an NBA championship to Toronto and urged us to believe in this city, and ourselves.

We are grateful for all he has done and wish him and his family the very best.”

Last season, the Raptors finished with a 30-52 record, failing to qualify for the playoffs – a disappointing outcome that underscored the challenges of maintaining success after a championship core was disbanded.

Ujiri’s legacy in Toronto, however, remains firmly intact. His leadership, bold decisions, and unwavering belief in the team and its fanbase helped elevate the franchise to unprecedented heights.