Masai Ujiri Joins Toronto Tempo Ownership Group

Renowned basketball executive Masai Ujiri has been unveiled as a Principal Owner of the Toronto Tempo, marking a significant step in the franchise’s ambition to shape the future of women’s basketball.

Ujiri, widely credited as the architect behind the Toronto Raptors’ 2019 NBA Championship triumph, brings a wealth of experience and a long-standing commitment to community development through sport. As the founder of Giants of Africa, he has played a pivotal role in empowering young people across the continent, with a strong emphasis on leadership, inclusion and opportunity.

Speaking on his new role, after his unveiling on Tuesday, Ujiri expressed enthusiasm about the project and its wider significance.
“As an honorary Canadian, I’m delighted to join the Tempo ownership group. This is a franchise that represents not only Canada, but the future of basketball,” he said. “It is about building leaders, elevating women both on and off the court, and establishing a championship culture from the outset. This is more than a team — it is a defining moment for women’s basketball globally.”

Central to that vision is Tempo Rising, a newly launched global coaching mentorship programme developed in partnership with the club. The initiative is designed to support emerging women-identifying and non-binary coaches at grassroots level, offering access to mentorship, professional development and practical coaching experience.

The programme will be guided by Ujiri alongside General Manager Monica Wright Rogers and Head Coach Sandy Brondello, with a focus on values-driven leadership, community impact and sustainable growth.

Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures, Larry Tanenbaum, welcomed the appointment, highlighting Ujiri’s alignment with the organisation’s ethos.
“Masai’s leadership, vision and belief in the power of sport make him an exceptional addition to our ownership group,” Tanenbaum said. “His values reflect everything the Tempo stand for — equity, excellence and purpose. Together, we aim to build a franchise that showcases the positive impact sport can have both in Canada and globally.”

Ujiri joins the ownership group alongside tennis icon Serena Williams, further strengthening the Tempo’s high-profile backing as the club prepares to make its mark on the global stage.