Kenyan-born president fired by Toronto Raptors after 13-year tenure
.jpg)
Reading Time: 3min | Sun. 29.06.25. | 08:20
The decision to fire Ujiri comes at a critical juncture for the Raptors, who are in the midst of a rebuild
Canada-based NBA side, Toronto Raptors, have parted ways with president and vice chairman Masai Ujiri.
The decision marked the end of a transformative 13-year tenure that included the franchise’s first and only NBA championship in 2019.
The 54-year-old was informed of the decision on Friday, 27 June, just one day after the conclusion of the NBA Draft. He was entering the final year of his contract.
“During his 13 seasons with the Raptors, Masai has helped transform the organization on the court and has been an inspirational leader off it. 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,” Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment CEO Keith Pelley said in a statement.
.jpg)
Ujiri joined the Raptors in 2013 as executive vice president and general manager and was promoted to team president in 2016. The following year, Bobby Webster was named general manager, allowing Ujiri to focus on broader strategic roles.
The decision to fire Ujiri comes at a critical juncture for the Raptors, who are in the midst of a rebuild following a disappointing 30-52 season that saw them miss the playoffs. Pelley acknowledged the gravity of the decision but emphasized that it was made with the team’s long-term future in mind.
“This decision today is hard. It is a tough decision, but I think it is the right decision for the Raptors at this time, and I will continue to make decisions that I think are right for the organization and put us in the best opportunity to win,” Pelley said.
In the same announcement, the Raptors revealed that Bobby Webster has signed a contract extension, although specific terms were not disclosed.
“We are confident that the Raptors organization, under the guidance of Bobby and his team, is in a great place. They have a plan in place for next season and beyond as the team continues its rebuild, and we have confidence in their ability to execute and ultimately, to excel,” Pelley added.
Ujiri’s departure triggered an outpouring of gratitude from fans, players, and global figures alike. Among those who publicly thanked him was former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
“Masai, my friend, thank you for your inspiring leadership and dedication to the Raptors. No one will forget that incredible 2019 championship run and your passion for the game. You have shown not only our youth in Canada but around the world and in Africa through Giants of Africa, the power of sport and education. Looking forward to seeing what you do next!” Trudeau said.
Ujiri’s legacy extends far beyond the court. He is the founder of the Giants of Africa foundation, which uses basketball as a tool to empower youth across the continent.
He was born in England to a Nigerian father and a Kenyan mother from Machakos County, and he spent most of his childhood in Nigeria. He has consistently championed African talent and causes.
.jpg)
