The architect behind the Toronto Raptors’ historic 2019 NBA Championship is officially parting ways with the franchise. On Friday, the Raptors confirmed the departure of team president Masai Ujiri, marking the end of a transformative 12-year era.
An unexpected timing
Ujiri’s exit comes as a surprise, especially following his active participation in the 2025 NBA Draft and with just one year remaining on his contract. Despite expectations that he might see out the final season before departing, both parties have opted for an early split. The reasons behind the timing remain undisclosed.
Transition begins with a search for new leadership
In a formal statement, the Raptors announced they will begin the search for a new team president. However, the current front office will maintain continuity in the interim. General Manager Bobby Webster, who has secured a contract extension, will remain in his role, ensuring some stability amid the leadership transition.
Draft success amidst uncertainty
Ujiri’s final move as Raptors president was overseeing a highly praised 2025 NBA Draft. The Raptors selected Collin Murray-Boyles with the ninth overall pick, earning an A- grade from Yahoo Sports analyst Kevin O’Connor. Their second-round selection, Alijah Martin, garnered even more praise with an A+ grade, suggesting a promising future despite recent struggles.
A legacy etched in Raptors history
Masai Ujiri joined the Raptors in 2013 as executive vice president and general manager. Under his guidance, Toronto emerged as a perennial playoff contender, finishing in the top two of the Atlantic Division for seven consecutive seasons. In 2016, he was promoted to team president while still serving as GM before eventually handing over that role to Webster in 2017.
His boldest and most iconic move came ahead of the 2018-19 season when he traded franchise cornerstone DeMar DeRozan for Kawhi Leonard. Despite doubts surrounding Leonard's health and contract length, Ujiri’s gamble paid off. Leonard led the Raptors to a historic victory over the Golden State Warriors in the 2019 NBA Finals, delivering Toronto its first NBA championship since the franchise’s inception in 1995.
Post-championship decline
Leonard’s departure after one season marked the start of the team’s downturn. Since finishing first in the division in 2019-20, the Raptors have struggled, failing to rise above third place in the past five seasons. Over the last two seasons, the team has posted a disappointing 55-109 record.
As Ujiri exits, he leaves behind a lasting legacy, one of courage, transformation, and championship glory.