Masai Ujiri Steps Down as Toronto Raptors President, Ending Transformative Era

Masai Ujiri, the architect behind the Toronto Raptors' most successful era, has stepped down from his roles as team president and vice chairman after 12 seasons, the team announced on June 27, 2025. Ujiri, 54, was entering the final year of his contract.

"During his 13 seasons with the Raptors, Masai has helped transform the organization on the court and has been an inspirational leader off it," said Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) President and CEO Keith Pelley. "He brought an NBA championship to Toronto and urged us to believe in this city, and ourselves. We are grateful for all he has done and wish him and his family the very best."

Ujiri joined the Raptors as executive vice president and general manager, earning the NBA Executive of the Year award that season. He was promoted to president in 2016. His tenure is highlighted by the bold 2018 trade that brought Kawhi Leonard to Toronto, leading to the franchise's first NBA Championship in 2019. Under his leadership, the Raptors reached the playoffs eight times from 2014 to 2022.

The decision to part ways follows a challenging 2024–25 season, where the Raptors finished with a 30-52 record, placing 11th in the Eastern Conference and missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year. Notably, the team suffered a significant 125-71 loss to the Boston Celtics on December 31, 2024, marking the worst defeat in franchise history.

General Manager Bobby Webster has received a contract extension and will oversee the team's operations during the search for Ujiri's successor. "We are confident that the Raptors organization, under the guidance of Bobby and his team, is in a great place," Pelley added. "They have a plan in place for next season and beyond as the team continues its rebuild, and we have confidence in their ability to execute and ultimately, to excel."

Ujiri's departure marks the end of a transformative era for the Raptors. His leadership not only brought the team its first championship but also elevated the franchise's profile globally. The decision to part ways may signal a strategic shift as the organization seeks to rebuild and return to playoff contention. The extension of Bobby Webster's contract suggests a commitment to continuity within the front office during this transitional period.

As the search for a new team president begins, the Raptors aim to build upon the foundation laid during Ujiri's tenure, striving to return to the heights of their 2019 championship season.