Dallas Mavericks name former Raptors executive Masai Ujiri as president

The Dallas Mavericks have appointed Masai Ujiri as their new team president and alternate governor following a comprehensive six-month search.

The 55-year-old arrives in Texas holding a formidable reputation as the chief architect behind the Toronto Raptors’ historic 2019 championship triumph.

A formal press conference to officially unveil the veteran executive alongside governor Patrick Dumont is scheduled for Tuesday.

A pivot to long-term rebuilding

This high-profile arrival concludes a turbulent period for the franchise, which has been operating without a lead decision-maker since November.

Former general manager Nico Harrison was dismissed after a disastrous start to the current campaign.

That poor run of form compounded intense fan anger surrounding the highly controversial trade of franchise cornerstone Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Following Harrison’s departure, ownership shifted their operational focus toward a long-term development strategy centred on sensational top draft pick Cooper Flagg.

Experience and culture building

Dumont initiated contact with the 2013 NBA Executive of the Year during a lengthy meeting in Las Vegas last December.

Throughout subsequent discussions, the franchise hierarchy became convinced of the new president’s ability to foster a strong winning culture.

The Mavericks had previously considered Minnesota Timberwolves president Tim Connelly, but opted against a formal approach due to his ongoing contract status.

Minority owner Mark Cuban, who sold his majority stake late last year, was reportedly not directly involved in the recruitment process.

During a decorated 15-year career leading front offices in Denver and Toronto, Ujiri’s teams accumulated a stellar 690-504 record and secured 12 playoff appearances.