Key moments
In a significant development for women’s sports, Masai Ujiri has officially joined the ownership group of the Toronto Tempo, a new WNBA franchise set to begin its inaugural season in April 2026. This announcement was made on March 31, 2026, and marks a pivotal moment for Ujiri, who previously served as the president of the Toronto Raptors.
The Toronto Tempo, which is owned by Larry Tanenbaum, will kick off its first in-season game on May 8 against the Washington Mystics, following a preseason match against the Connecticut Sun on April 29. Ujiri’s involvement is expected to bring a wealth of experience, having led the Raptors to their 2019 NBA Finals championship during his 12 years with the team.
Ujiri’s leadership in the basketball community is well recognized; he was named NBA Executive of the Year in 2013 and has been a prominent advocate for global basketball development and youth initiatives. His new role with the Tempo includes launching a mentorship program called Tempo Rising, aimed at supporting women and non-binary coaches in the sport.
High-profile figures such as Serena Williams and Geoff Molson are also part of the ownership group, reflecting the growing interest and investment in women’s sports. Ujiri expressed his enthusiasm for the new venture, stating, “Women’s sports are growing in an incredible way,” highlighting the momentum behind the movement.
In a statement about his new role, Ujiri remarked, “It’s a dream, right? It’s incredible,” emphasizing his commitment to fostering a championship culture within the franchise. His vision aligns with the broader trend of increasing visibility and support for women’s sports, which has seen significant growth in recent years.
Larry Tanenbaum praised Ujiri’s addition to the ownership group, stating, “Masai’s leadership, his vision, and his deep belief in the power of sport make him an extraordinary addition to our ownership group.” This sentiment underscores the expectations surrounding Ujiri’s impact on the team.
As the Toronto Tempo prepares for its debut season, the excitement surrounding the franchise continues to build. Ujiri’s track record in the NBA and his dedication to developing talent in women’s sports are expected to play a crucial role in the team’s future success.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific plans for the team’s community engagement initiatives, but Ujiri’s history suggests a strong focus on inclusivity and mentorship. The Toronto Tempo’s establishment is a significant step forward for women’s professional basketball in Canada, and Ujiri’s involvement is likely to inspire future generations of athletes.
