Raptors Architect Joins Toronto Tempo Ownership

Masai Ujiri is returning to the city where he built a championship legacy, this time as part of the ownership group for the WNBA’s expansion franchise, the Toronto Tempo.

The announcement marks a new chapter for Ujiri, who rose to prominence as the architect of the Toronto Raptors 2019 title run and became one of the most influential executives in global basketball. His move to the Tempo comes as the WNBA prepares for the team’s debut season in 2026, signaling both ambition and credibility for the new franchise.

Ujiri joins an ownership group led by Larry Tanenbaum, a longtime figure in Toronto sports business. The partnership reunites two leaders closely associated with the Raptors’ rise and underscores a shared vision for growing the game in Canada.

In a statement, Ujiri pointed to the rapid rise of women’s basketball worldwide and the opportunity to help shape its future in Toronto. He described the move as both a professional and personal commitment to advancing the sport and creating pathways for the next generation of athletes and leaders.

The Tempo is one of the WNBA’s newest expansion teams, part of a broader push to grow the league’s footprint and audience. Ujiri’s involvement is widely seen as a significant boost, given his track record in team building, international scouting and community engagement. His presence is expected to influence not only basketball operations but also the organization’s broader culture and outreach.

League observers say the addition of a high profile figure like Ujiri reflects increasing investment and confidence in women’s professional sports. The WNBA has seen rising attendance, viewership and sponsorship in recent years, and Toronto’s entry into the league represents a major step in its expansion beyond the United States.

For Toronto, the move reinforces the city’s status as a basketball hub. Ujiri’s return brings familiarity and credibility to a franchise that has yet to play a game but is already drawing attention.

The Tempo will begin building their roster through the expansion process in the coming months, with expectations heightened by Ujiri’s involvement. While success on the court will take time, the ownership announcement has already positioned the team as a serious entrant in the league.

For Ujiri, it is a continuation of a career defined by growth and opportunity, now aligned with the momentum of women’s basketball in Canada.

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