Drake Sends Strong Message After Raptors' Major Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Ayomide P. Adeduyite | Last updated Jun 28, 2025 1:28 PM ET

The Toronto Raptors' offseason was jolted by a surprise announcement just one day after the NBA Draft: long-time president Masai Ujiri is exiting the team. The decision comes on the heels of a disappointing 2024-25 campaign in which the team finished 30-52, missed the playoffs for the third straight year, and missed the play-in tournament.

Ujiri had led the organization for 13 seasons, becoming the most successful executive in franchise history. Under his leadership, the Raptors posted a regular-season record of 545-419, with eight playoff appearances and the team’s only NBA title in 2019. His tenure was marked by a sustained run of winning seasons and significant cultural and on-court achievements.

Off the court, Ujiri forged strong ties within the city’s sports and entertainment circles—most notably through his friendship with rapper Drake. Uriji’s partnership with Drake, who has been publicly supportive of his hometown team and has appeared courtside during Raptors games, helped elevate Toronto from a regional team into a global brand.

Following the announcement of Ujiri’s departure, Drake posted a heartfelt message on his Instagram story: “My mentor and my friend. The city will miss you. Thank you for an unforgettable 13 years.”

Drake on IG: pic.twitter.com/kXByihh9DB
— RapsShowYo (@RapsShowYo) June 27, 2025

Drake’s ties to the Raptors run deep. Named the team’s global ambassador in 2013, he has been a visible part of the “We The North” campaign, attended key charity events alongside Ujiri, and routinely made courtside appearances through the championship era and beyond.

With Ujiri now gone, the Raptors must fill a leadership void at a pivotal moment. General manager Bobby Webster has been retained, with MLSE perhaps set to launch a search for a new team president soon.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: