Shocking news has come from the world of NBA basketball. Masai Ujiri, the figure known as the architect behind the Toronto Raptors' success in winning the NBA title in 2019, has officially resigned from his position as Vice Chairman and President of the team.
The decision was announced by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), the Raptors' parent company, just one day after the conclusion of the 2025 NBA Draft , as reported by ESPN via Shams Charania, Friday.
Ujiri, who joined the Raptors in 2013 as General Manager before rising to President in 2016 and then Vice Chairman in 2021, has made a stellar history during his 13-year tenure.
The 54-year-old has transformed the Raptors from a mediocre team into a global force in the NBA, culminating in the franchise 's first NBA championship in 2019, thanks to his bold decision to trade DeMar DeRozan for Kawhi Leonard.
During his tenure, the Raptors posted a 545-419 record, ranking fifth in winning percentage in the NBA since 2014, and appeared in the playoffs for seven straight seasons from 2013 to 2020.
However, the Raptors' less than satisfactory performance in the last three seasons, with a 30-52 record in the 2024-25 season and missing the playoffs for three straight years, is one factor that may influence this decision.
