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Former Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri has officially joined the ownership group for the Toronto Tempo, the city's new WNBA team set to begin its inaugural season this spring. Ujiri is practically royalty in the Canadian basketball scene, and has already had an immense impact on the growth of the sport in Canada during his tenure with the Toronto Raptors. Considered the architect of the Toronto Raptors' historic 2019 NBA Championship and known for his basketball development work as founder of Giants of Africa, the 55-year-old executive brings a trusted presence to the Tempo's ownership group alongside fellow principal owner, tennis legend Serena Williams . "As an honourary Canadian, I'm excited to be part of the Tempo team as I believe they are building something truly historic — a franchise that represents not only Canada, but the future of basketball," said Ujiri. "I believe deeply in the vision behind the Tempo: creating female leaders, elevating women not just on the court, but across the organization, and building championship culture from day one. This is more than just a new team — it's a defining moment in women's basketball globally." Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures (and major stakeholder in Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment) hailed "Masai's leadership, his vision, and his deep belief in the power of sport," adding that "In his role as a Principal Owner, his influence and values align perfectly with what the Tempo stands for — equity, excellence, and purpose." "Together, we will continue to build a franchise that reflects the best of what sport can do for communities here in Canada and around the world," said Tanenbaum. Ujiri served with the Toronto Raptors for 12 years until his 2025 dismissal from the team .
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