Masai Ujiri Joins Serena Williams as WNBA Club Owner

Nigeria-born basketball executive Masai Ujiri has joined the ownership group of WNBA expansion side Toronto Tempo, becoming a principal owner alongside tennis great Serena Williams, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The 55-year-old, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in global basketball, takes up the role as the Canadian franchise prepares for its debut season in 2026 as the WNBA’s first team based outside the United States.

Ujiri, who was born in the United Kingdom to Nigerian and Kenyan parents and raised in Nigeria, is best known as the architect of the Toronto Raptors’ 2019 NBA title-winning side and as the founder of Giants of Africa, a platform focused on youth empowerment through sport across the continent.

Confirming his appointment, the club described him as one of the most respected executives and visionaries in basketball, highlighting his long-standing commitment to equity, leadership and the development of women in sport.

“As an honorary 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,” Ujiri said.

“I believe deeply in the vision behind the Tempo: creating female leaders, elevating women not just on the court, but across the organisation, 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.”

Ujiri’s involvement will also extend beyond ownership through the launch of Tempo Rising, a global coaching mentorship programme designed to support emerging women and non-binary coaches at grassroots level, offering access to professional development and hands-on experience.

Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures, Larry Tanenbaum, said Ujiri’s influence aligns with the club’s values.

“Masai’s leadership, his vision, and his deep belief in the power of sport make him an extraordinary addition to our ownership group,” Tanenbaum said.

“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.”

The Tempo were awarded as a WNBA expansion franchise in 2024 and will become the league’s 14th team when they begin play in 2026, marking a significant step in the global growth of women’s basketball.

Ujiri’s appointment adds further weight to the project, combining his experience in building championship teams with his long-standing advocacy for inclusion, development and opportunity within the sport.

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