Masai Ujiri Joins Toronto Tempo Ownership as WNBA Expands Into Canada

Image by Toronto Tempo

Co-Founder of Giants of Africa, former Vice-Chairman, President of the Toronto Raptors Basketball Club Inc. and United Nations Sustainable Goals Development Advocate. Masai Ujiri, a key figure behind the Toronto Raptors’ 2019 NBA title, has joined the ownership group of the Toronto Tempo, Canada’s first Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) franchise, as a Principal Owner.

Ujiri’s appointment strengthens the strategic positioning of the expansion team ahead of its 2026 debut, adding one of global basketball’s most influential executives alongside existing investor Serena Williams.

Beyond ownership, Ujiri will help launch Tempo Rising, a coaching development initiative focused on supporting women and non-binary coaches through mentorship, training, and international exposure. The program aligns with broader efforts to build leadership pipelines across women’s basketball.

“As an honourary Canadian, I’m excited to be part of the Tempo team as I believe they are building something truly historic — a franchise that represents not only Canada, but the future of basketball,” said Ujiri. “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. This is more than just a new team — it’s a defining moment in women’s basketball globally.”

The Tempo, owned by Kilmer Sports Ventures, is the WNBA’s first franchise outside the U.S., reflecting the league’s push into international markets and the growing commercial relevance of women’s sports.

“Masai’s leadership, his vision, and his deep belief in the power of sport make him an extraordinary addition to our ownership group,” said Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures. “In his role as a Principal Owner, his influence and values align perfectly with what the Tempo stands for — equity, excellence, and purpose. Together, we will continue to build a franchise that reflects the best of what sport can do for communities here in Canada and around the world.”

Source: Toronto Tempo