BURNABY, B.C. — Masai Ujiri: The Architect Behind the Toronto Raptors’ Success

When it comes to Masai Ujiri’s accomplishments in the NBA, leading the Toronto Raptors to a championship will forever be at the top of the list. However, Ujiri’s impact extends far beyond that memorable title run. From his charitable work with Giants of Africa to his impressive player acquisitions with the Raptors and Denver Nuggets, Ujiri has left an indelible mark on the basketball world.

Ujiri’s journey with the Raptors began when he was brought in by Bryan Colangelo, the team’s former director of global scouting. While Colangelo may not have had as much success in challenging the Raptors’ corporate ownership structure, he recognized the need for change and laid the groundwork for Ujiri’s transformative work.

Under Ujiri’s leadership, the Raptors underwent a period of modernization. They established their own G League team in 2015 and built a state-of-the-art practice facility, the OVO Athletic Centre, in 2016. These developments, along with increased resources and a larger coaching and front-office staff, allowed the Raptors to operate on a more competitive level.

However, with greater autonomy comes accountability. Ujiri, as the Raptors’ president and vice-chairman, bears the responsibility for the team’s successes and failures. This level of dysfunction is to be expected in any professional sports organization.

One recent development that has raised concerns among Toronto basketball fans is the report that MLSE (Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment) withdrew its bid for an expansion WNBA team. This decision, reportedly influenced by a strained relationship between Ujiri and MLSE board member Edward Rogers, is disheartening for those hoping to see a WNBA franchise in Toronto.

While Rogers may appear as the easy scapegoat, MLSE’s decision was ultimately made by the board of directors, which includes multiple members with no direct ties to Rogers. If the entire board had been in favor of pursuing a WNBA team, MLSE would have moved forward with the expansion. The notion that personal relationships took precedence over the team’s success is frustrating for supporters of basketball in Toronto.

The absence of a WNBA team in Toronto is a missed opportunity for basketball fans and MLSE itself. The city has shown its willingness to support women’s sports, as demonstrated by the large turnout for a WNBA exhibition game earlier this year. MLSE’s reluctance to invest in a franchise points to a short-sightedness that fails to recognize the value of diversifying its sports portfolio.

While the fallout from this decision may not have an immediate impact on the Raptors, it raises questions about the stability of MLSE’s ownership group. Uncertainty at the ownership level can have a ripple effect throughout an organization, potentially destabilizing team operations and decision-making processes.

Despite the potential challenges ahead, Ujiri’s dedication to the Raptors remains unwavering. His contract extension solidifies his commitment to the team, and his track record speaks for itself. It is crucial that evaluations of his performance as an executive are not clouded by personal animosity or ownership uncertainty.

In the end, the hope is that MLSE recognizes the value of bringing a WNBA team to Toronto and takes the necessary steps to rectify the situation. The city is ready and eager to support women’s basketball, with or without MLSE’s involvement. Basketball fans in Toronto deserve the opportunity to cheer for a WNBA franchise and witness the continued success of the Raptors under Ujiri’s leadership.

Header image: Raptors’ championship parade and victory rally with MLSE chairman Larry Tanenbaum (Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)

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Emily Turner

Emily Turner is your source for everything NBA. As a dedicated basketball enthusiast, she offers insights into NBA games, player highlights, trade rumors, and the league’s evolving dynamics. Emily’s love for the sport shines through in her comprehensive NBA coverage.