On a particularly challenging and emotional morning, Masai Ujiri shared a story about his promotion in Denver years ago and a chance encounter he had with the iconic Dikembe Mutombo at the airport.
That day, Ujiri opted for comfort in a tracksuit when Mutombo posed a rhetorical question. “Didn’t you just get promoted?” Mutombo asked. The implication was clear: as an executive, you should dress the part. From that moment on, Ujiri decided it would be the last time he traveled for business in a tracksuit.
Ujiri shared this story after experiencing his first of many emotional moments on a long and difficult Monday. Mutombo, a towering figure in the NBA, a giant in Africa, and a hero to many, had passed away from brain cancer at the age of 58. “This one hits close to home,” Ujiri, president of the Toronto Raptors, remarked. “I don’t want to bring the mood down, but this really affects me. It hurts. “I don’t want to (he paused to regain his composure) … this is really hard. However, I have to say, that man shaped us into who we are. He was a true giant, an amazing individual. Who are we without Dikembe Mutombo?”
This occurred late in the morning during Raptors Media Day, a time typically filled with basketball joy and excitement. Ujiri kicked off the event by being the first to speak at the podium in Scotiabank Arena, outlining the day’s agenda, setting the tone, and addressing any misconceptions that needed clarification, all before the news of his dear friend’s passing broke. Ujiri was straightforward in responding to the question that was on everyone’s mind, prior to learning about Mutombo.
The topic was Rogers taking control of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, which effectively means they now own the Raptors. While Ujiri’s close friend Larry Tanenbaum may still serve as chairman of the board for the NBA, he will no longer hold ownership of the Raptors. This shift alters the team’s dynamics, regardless of Ujiri’s efforts to promote a ‘business as usual’ attitude. Few organizations operate the same way after a sale. Tanenbaum has been a pivotal figure for the Raptors as the chairman of MLSE, but soon, his influence will either be reduced or entirely gone. Ujiri was ready to tackle the question head-on. “I believe everyone came out for this one,” he stated. “I’m here to clarify things. “I know everyone is curious about my relationship with Edward Rogers. We have a fantastic relationship that has lasted for 10 years.”
My relationship with Larry Tanenbaum, who is my mentor, remains unchanged. My focus here is to perform my duties and work towards winning with this team. However, was there a contract negotiation concern involving Rogers, with rumors suggesting Tanenbaum wanted to secure a long-term deal for Ujiri while Rogers did not? “I’ll tackle that,” Ujiri responded. “Negotiations can be challenging.
My contract talks were tough. I even had difficult negotiations with my three-year-old son this morning! Every negotiation has its difficulties. “This is just part of life. We all experience it. He has never treated me any differently during that process. Everyone moves on. I need to do my job as effectively as I can. “They’ve been respectful to me, and treated me well here… And I know I’ll be evaluated based on my performance. Let’s clear up any narrative about a Masai versus Edward conflict—there’s nothing happening there.” As for the basketball team starting training camp on Tuesday, they have a lot to prove, particularly in terms of securing wins.
They have a coach, Darko Rajakovic, about whom there’s still much to learn. Is he a capable NBA coach? Could he become a great one? It’s hard to say after just one season with a fluctuating roster. Scottie Barnes, the gym enthusiast, represents the core of the Raptors’ future. Ujiri and general manager Bobby Webster have a track record of finding innovative ways to succeed.
Media Day brings a mix of hope and uncertainty, like the first day back to school for sports teams—new opportunities, fresh starts, and a clean slate for all. Yet, Ujiri is starting this chapter with a heavy heart, grieving for Mutombo, basketball, and Africa. He will mourn him today, tomorrow, and perhaps for the rest of his life. We never forget those who have profoundly influenced and shaped us.
“You can’t fully understand the impact Dikembe Mutombo had on me. He was instrumental in shaping who we are,” Ujiri expressed. “He was an enormous presence with an even bigger heart. He contributed so much to us, to Africa, and to his community. “I can’t describe how much he has done for my career. He guided me in Denver and helped me grow as a person. I’m proud to have worked alongside him and to have had him as a mentor. “This one really resonates with me. It truly affects me.”
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