Dallas hires Masai Ujiri to run basketball operations ahead of critical offseason
The Dallas Mavericks have hired Masai Ujiri as president of basketball operations and alternate governor, the team announced Monday . Ujiri, 55, joins Dallas after a 12-year run with the Toronto Raptors, where he oversaw one of the most successful stretches in franchise history. His tenure included multiple playoff appearances and the team’s first NBA championship in 2019.
“I’m honored to join the Dallas Mavericks and step into this role at such an important time for the organization,” Ujiri said in a statement provided by the Mavericks. “This is a franchise with a proud history, passionate fans, and a commitment to winning. I look forward to working with our players, coaches, and leadership team to build something that reflects that standard and competes at the highest level.
We will win in Dallas. ” The hiring comes months after the Mavericks dismissed general manager Nico Harrison following a turbulent stretch that included the trade of franchise cornerstone Luka Dončić . The move sparked backlash among the fan base and coincided with a steep decline in the team’s performance.
Dallas governor Patrick Dumont prioritized experience in the search for new leadership. Sources told DLLS Sports’ Marc Stein that the Mavericks also explored candidates such as Bob Myers and Tim Connelly before ultimately securing Ujiri. “The Dallas Mavericks are committed to being a world-class organization with a strong culture and focused on winning championships,” Dumont said in a statement.
“Masai Ujiri is one of the great basketball leaders of this generation and his addition to our franchise is a critical step in meeting our goals. We are honored to have him join the Mavs family. We welcome his energy and determination along with his leadership, experience and many accomplishments as a basketball executive.