In a significant development just over a month ahead of their inaugural game, the Toronto Tempo revealed that Masai Ujiri, the former president of the Toronto Raptors, has become a principal owner of the team’s 2026 WNBA expansion franchise. This announcement marks a notable chapter in the evolution of the new team as it prepares to enter the league.
Masai Ujiri’s Transition from NBA to WNBA Ownership
Ujiri, renowned for steering the Toronto Raptors to their historic and sole NBA championship in 2019, departed the franchise last summer. His departure was motivated by a desire to dedicate more attention to his basketball-focused charitable initiative, Giants of Africa. The move into ownership with the Tempo signals a fresh chapter in his influential basketball career, this time within women’s professional sports.
Expressing his conviction in the team’s mission, Ujiri stated, “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.” His commitment highlights a focus not only on athletic excellence but also on fostering leadership and empowerment within the franchise’s framework.