Masai Ujiri has nothing but love for Toronto.
During an appearance on Good Morning America on Thursday, the former Raptors vice-chairman and president spoke publicly for the first time since parting ways with the organization.
He didn't discuss his departure, but Ujiri made sure to thank the city and organization that he called home for over a decade.
"I love you, Toronto. I love you, Toronto," Ujiri said to GMA host Robin Roberts before discussing the Giants of Africa organization. "It's been 12 incredible years with the Toronto Raptors, and I am so grateful and thankful for the opportunity.
"Fans, my family, colleagues, coaches, players, the owners, everybody has been incredible to me."
Ujiri was entering the final year of a five-year deal that he signed back in 2021, before parting ways with the organization on June 27.
The Raptors hired Ujiri as vice-president and general manager in 2013, and he helped turn the team into a consistent playoff contender, making the post-season in seven straight seasons. In 2016, he was promoted to team president and handed over the GM role to Bobby Webster in 2017.
"A great part, great journey in my life. It's time, and great things come to an end," Ujiri told Roberts.
The former NBA executive's focus now shifts to his Giants of Africa organization, which instills and develops leadership among Africa's youth through the game of basketball.
But as for what comes next in the NBA, Ujiri is uncertain.
"Now, it's day to day with the family," Ujiri said. "It's a time to really look at it from the top, and I know there are great things coming."
