Masai Ujiri, from Nigeria to NBA Champion

Masai Ujiri is one of the most accomplished and remarkable managers in the game today. But his journey started different then most. Masai came from Nigeria, where he fell in love with the game of basketball, and in his youth he was able to convince his family to move to the U.S. where he went to a prep school in Seattle, Washington.

He got his first NBA opportunity with the Orlando Magic as an international scout, from there he went to Denver as another international scout. And from there Masai took off, impressing teams and front offices with his tenacity, confidence, and can do attitude.

Masai can be remember for the trade that sent the beloved fan favorite Demar Derozan to San Antonio for star Kawhi Leonard. As well as firing Dwayne Casey the same year he won Coach of the Year. Although these moves seemed risky and bold that's just the type of guy he is. Unafraid to try new things and is always looking for a way to get an advantage on his opponents. A fearless leader who's always forward thinking, leads the Raptors to stardom and gives the city and himself there first ever NBA championship, with the bold strategies and moves, it paid off and brought the championship back with him.

Masai is also very big with the growth of the game in Africa, as well as in Canada. Being on a sporting committed in both countries he's always been able to give back to the youth and has committed to helping others. Masai being an extremely humble person has always looked back and gave his family and the people who helped shaped him a ton of acknowledgement, and he's continued to share his love for the game with his people back in Nigeria. Growing up watching games on tapes helped mold him into the leader he is today.

Looking at his journey and how he's handling all his power now is truly and inspiring story. Growing up having to watch recorded games on tapes, to becoming an NBA champion. As well as going back to Nigeria and giving back to his community. His work with the BAL(Basketball Africa League), and in Canada shows the true leader he is. Overall I look up to Masai a lot, and being able to read and learn about his journey gave me a ton of respect for him. He's truly an incredible leader, and an even better person.

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