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Toronto Raptors will soon be under new leadership. Masai Ujiri was fired as franchise’s vice -president and president, the team announced the team the day after the NBA draft was completed.
Ujiri spent 13 seasons with the NBA franchise.
“During his 13 seasons with Raptors, Masai has helped transform the organization on the field and has been an inspiring leader from it,” said Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment CEO Keith Pelley in a statement.
“He brought a NBA championship to Toronto and urged us to believe in this city and ourselves. We are grateful for everything he has done and wishes him and his family the very best.”
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Toronto Raptor President Masai Ujiri before a game against Miami Heat at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto February 21, 2025. (Kevin Sousa/Imag images)
While Ujiris Long Stint in the front office ended, other key members at the front office were detained, including general manager Bobby Webster. The team announced that webster had been awarded a contract extension.
Pelley expressed confidence in Webster’s ability to lead Raptors’ basketball operations.
“We are convinced that the Raptor organization under the guidance of Bobby and his team is a great place,” the statement continued. “They have a plan in place for next season and beyond when the team continues its reconstruction, and we have confidence in their ability to perform and ultimately to excel.”
Toronto Raptor Vice -President and President Masai Ujiri speaks to the media in the Scotiabank area in Toronto 30 September 2024. (John E. Sokolowski/Imag- Pictures)
On Friday, Pelley turned the timing of the move to share ways with Ujiri and tell journalists that “over a month ago”, Ujiri asked to work through the draft.
“Why the timing now? So, Masai and I talked to each other over a month ago, and he asked that if a change was to happen that it was after drag,” Pelley told journalists Friday. “And it made the most sense not to disturb the draft of the process.
“We held the ninth choice, a top 10 choice and of course Masai’s – not just his field of passion, but his area of expertise – he is productive when it comes to the draft. And we were grateful to have him as the person, with Bobby [Webster]that leads our draft. “
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When Raptors launch a search for a new team president, the remaining members of the front office will prepare for NBA’s free agency period starting Monday.
Toronto won only 30 games last season and it’s been three years since the team has gone to the playoffs.
President Masai Ujiri of Toronto Raptors during the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery 12 May 2025 in Chicago. (Melissa Tamez/NBAE via Getty Images)
Ujiri landed his first NBA General Manager -Job in 2011, when Denver Nuggets chose him for the role. He was named Raptors’ General Manager in 2013. He received the League Executive of the Year Honors that season.
He also monitored Raptors’ championship in 2019.
