By BABATUNDE OGUNRINDE

Nigeria-born basketball executive, Masai Ujiri, has joined Toronto Tempo as Principal Owner, unveiling a coaching initiative for women and girls.

The move aligns with Canada’s first Women’s National Basketball Association franchise, opening new pathways for female athletes, including emerging Nigerian talents and coaches.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports Ujiri remains a leading grassroots basketball supporter, funding youth programmes and nurturing Nigerian players into collegiate systems in the United States.

His long-standing efforts have helped produce Nigerian stars, many of whom secured scholarships and professional careers through structured exposure and mentorship.

In a statement by media aide Pius Ayino, Ujiri said he was excited to join a project “building something truly historic” for Canada and global basketball.

“We are creating female leaders and elevating women across the organisation,” he said, pledging to build a strong, inclusive and championship-driven culture.

Ujiri described the franchise as “more than a new team,” calling it “a defining moment in women’s basketball globally,” with ripple effects for Africa.

He joins ownership alongside Serena Williams, strengthening the franchise’s influence and inspiring young Nigerian girls to pursue leadership in the sport.

As architect of the Toronto Raptors’ 2019 title win, Ujiri is widely recognised for visionary leadership and community-driven impact.

Through his project, ‘Giants of Africa’, he has advanced youth empowerment, promoting education, life skills and infrastructure development across African communities.

His ‘Built Within’ initiative also aims to construct 100 courts, tackling facility shortages and expanding basketball access for young Nigerians and other African youths. (NAN)