Toronto Raptors announced Masai Ujiri is stepping down as team president and vice-chairman, ending a powerful 13-year run with the Raptors
Photo From: (ESPN)
Ujiri, 54, had a year remaining on his contract when the decision was made. At the controls initially as executive vice-president and general manager (2013–16), then team president (2016–present) he oversaw the franchise’s most successful era. That was encapsulated by its historic 2019 NBA championship, won following the July 2018 coup in signing Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green.
During Ujiri’s time at the helm, the Raptors reached the NBA playoffs eight times in nine seasons between 2014 and 2022, captured several Atlantic Division titles, and earned a reputation as an international basketball powerhouse
However, recent years have seen a downturn. Toronto finished the 2024–25 campaign with a 30–52 record and missed the postseason for the third consecutive year.
MLSE president and CEO Keith Pelley praised Ujiri’s work, saying, “He brought an NBA championship to Toronto and challenged us to believe in this city, and in ourselves. We appreciate all he has done and wish him and his family all the best.”
Photo From: (Timeout)
The formal succession search for Ujiri will start promptly and is being directed by CAA Executive Search. In the meantime, General Manager Bobby Webster, who has been held over in recent contract talks, and the remainder of the front office will guide the franchise through the coming free-agency season and rebuild process.
Ujiri, who began his NBA executive career with the Orlando Magic and Denver Nuggets, was named NBA Executive of the Year in 2013 for his work with Denver before taking the helm in Toronto.
His journey continues to inspire those who admire his leadership and commitment to the game.
