The hero of the Raptors arrives at the Dallas Mavericks

Major move in the NBA. The Dallas Mavericks have announced this Monday the hiring of Masai Ujiri as the new president of the franchise, in a decision that signals a significant change in direction for the Texan organization.

Ujiri arrives in Dallas after a long 12-year tenure leading the Toronto Raptors, where he made an indelible mark by building the team that won the NBA championship in 2019. His legacy is closely tied to that success, particularly for his signing of Kawhi Leonard.

The addition of the executive is the result of a six-month selection process. The Mavericks had previously parted ways with their general manager, Nico Harrison, whose time with the franchise will always be remembered for trading Luka Doncic.

The contrast with Ujiri is evident: while Harrison will be remembered for that departure, the new president is known for key moves like bringing Leonard to Toronto.

Career and Recognition

Before his time in Canada, Ujiri had already made a mark in the NBA, being named the Executive of the Year in the 2012-13 season with the Denver Nuggets. He then joined the Raptors, concluding his tenure with them after this past summer's draft.

Ujiri takes charge in Dallas with a project centered around a young top-tier talent like Cooper Flagg. From there, he must determine how to build the team around this key piece. One of the significant moves emerging in this new scenario is the potential departure of Kyrie Irving, a decision that could mark the beginning of this new era.

In his initial words as president, Ujiri has shown his excitement for the challenge: he expressed feeling honored to join a team with history, passionate fans, and a strong commitment to victory. Furthermore, he emphasized his intention to collaborate with players, coaches, and executives to construct a highly competitive project. "We will win in Dallas," he boldly stated.