Key moments
In a significant development for women’s sports, Masai Ujiri has officially joined the ownership group of the WNBA franchise Toronto Tempo. This announcement comes as the team prepares for its inaugural season, which is set to kick off in April 2026. Ujiri, who is well-known for his leadership with the Toronto Raptors, aims to bring his expertise and vision to the new franchise.
The Toronto Tempo’s first in-season game is scheduled for May 8, where they will face off against the Washington Mystics. Prior to that, the team will host its first preseason game on April 29 against the Connecticut Sun. These upcoming matches mark a pivotal moment for the franchise as it seeks to establish itself in the competitive landscape of women’s basketball.
Ujiri’s addition to the ownership group, which is led by majority owner Larry Tanenbaum, is seen as a strategic move to build a strong foundation for the team. Tanenbaum expressed his enthusiasm, 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 reflects the high expectations surrounding Ujiri’s role in shaping the team’s future.
Having spent over a decade with the Toronto Raptors, Ujiri brings a wealth of experience to the table. His tenure included leading the Raptors to the NBA Finals championship in 2019, a feat that solidified his reputation as a top executive in professional basketball. Ujiri’s commitment to fostering a championship culture is evident as he embarks on this new journey with the Toronto Tempo.
In addition to his ownership role, Ujiri is launching a mentorship program called Tempo Rising, aimed at supporting women and non-binary coaches in the sport. This initiative underscores his dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion within the realm of basketball, particularly in women’s sports, which he believes are experiencing remarkable growth. Ujiri stated, “Women’s sports are growing in an incredible way,” highlighting the potential for the Toronto Tempo to contribute to this positive trend.
The franchise was awarded to Tanenbaum’s holding company in May 2024, marking a significant milestone in the development of women’s professional basketball in Toronto. With high-profile figures like Serena Williams and Geoff Molson also part of the ownership group, the Toronto Tempo is poised to attract attention and support from a diverse fan base.
As the team gears up for its inaugural season, the excitement among fans and stakeholders is palpable. Ujiri’s vision for the franchise includes not only competitive success but also a commitment to community engagement and empowerment through sports. He remarked, “I want to win again so I can actually enjoy it,” signaling his determination to replicate his past successes in this new venture.
With the inaugural season just around the corner, the Toronto Tempo is set to make its mark in the WNBA. As details continue to unfold, the basketball community eagerly anticipates the impact of Ujiri’s leadership and the team’s performance on the court. The stage is set for a new chapter in Toronto’s sports history, and the future looks bright for the Toronto Tempo.
