Ex-Raptors president Ujiri joins Tempo ownership

Masai Ujiri has found his next big basketball role in Canada.

The former longtime Toronto Raptors president joined the expansion Toronto Tempo as a principal owner, the WNBA team announced Tuesday.

Ujiri will play a role in developing women's basketball leaders through a new coaching mentorship program.

"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," Ujiri said.

The 55-year-old was let go by the Raptors last June following a 12-year run between that was highlighted by the franchise's first and only NBA championship in 2019.

"I want to win with the Tempo and I want to win another NBA championship because I wasn't able to celebrate and be happy because of that police incident that happened to me," Ujiri told ESPN's Ramona Shelburne.

Ujiri is referring to an incident where a sheriff's deputy stopped him from entering the court to celebrate the Raptors' title over the Golden State Warriors at the Oracle Arena after Ujiri didn't provide the proper credentials, which lead to an altercation.

Maple Leaf Sport & Entertainment board member Larry Tanenbaum, tennis legend Serena Williams, and Montreal Canadiens owner Geoff Molson are among other major names that are part of the Tempo ownership group.

The Tempo will kick off their inaugural season May 8 against the Washington Mystics at Toronto's Coca-Cola Coliseum.