Raptors name Bobby Webster GM after outside search: ‘We already have the right person’

The Toronto Raptors went looking for a new team president this summer and wound up staying in-house instead.

On Monday, Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment announced that general manager Bobby Webster will continue leading the franchise, with no plans to appoint a president.

MLSE president and CEO Keith Pelley said the decision came after meeting with outside candidates during the search process.

“Going through this comprehensive process this summer and meeting with external candidates played a critical role in arriving at this decision as it made clear that we already have the right person leading the Raptors in-house,” Pelley said, via a team press release. “When we weighed the many considerations, including roster construction, team culture and competitive landscape, it made perfect sense to officially hand the team to Bobby and give him the time and support to allow his plan to develop.

“After spending time together this summer in Las Vegas, I was very impressed by Bobby’s leadership style, his rapport with the players and staff, his reputation with his peers across the league and especially and importantly his vision for the Raptors. This team is his now to lead and I know we all look forward to what comes next.”

Webster, 40, enters his ninth season as general manager and 13th overall with the organization. He has been in the NBA for more than two decades and was a major figure in constructing the 2019 championship roster.

He took over as general manager in 2017 after serving as assistant GM and vice president of basketball management and strategy.

“I’m grateful to Keith, to the board, and to our ownership for this opportunity, the chance to continue the work that I love, for a team, a city, and country that’s become home,” Webster said. “The things that are important to me, a deep love for basketball, thoughtful and empowering leadership, and a competitive fire, are the pillars of who I am as a leader.

“That is what you will see from me every day. This is a new chapter in Raptors basketball, but one thing that will not change is our passion for winning and our goal to bring another championship to Toronto.”

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