Masai Ujiri heartwarmingly shares Larry O'Brien Trophy with parents

Masai Ujiri has long established himself as one of the defining citizens of Toronto, but he’s never forgotten where he came from.

Ujiri’s imprint was all over the Raptors’ championship in 2018-19, from acquiring Kawhi Leonard, Danny Green, Marc Gasol in the span of seven months, while finding gems like Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby and the undrafted Fred VanVleet in recent years.

Toronto Raptors president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri brought the Larry O'Brien Trophy to his parents in Nigeria. (John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports)
Toronto Raptors president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri brought the Larry O'Brien Trophy to his parents in Nigeria. (John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports)

It’s undeniable that Ujiri is among the best executives in the NBA and the entire country will never forget his contributions, as the Raptors’ president of basketball operations celebrated all summer alongside the fan base.

There was just one pivotal stop missing during his championship summer: a return home to Nigeria where he could share the Larry O’Brien Trophy with his parents.

HBO’s Real Sports documented Ujiri’s journey this summer, capturing some truly heartwarming memories.

Ujiri was visibly emotional, breaking into tears upon visiting his parents, while thanking them for his upbringing.

“You climb higher and higher and higher, Masai,” Ujiri’s mother tells him during the HBO segment.

Ujiri’s never forgotten his roots and he’s the foremost player in bringing and discovering top-tier talent from Africa to the NBA, while his Giants of Africa team creates opportunities, using basketball as a vehicle for underprivileged youth.

It’s only fitting Ujiri’s parents are glowing about their son’s astounding success, considering that he might have a perfect approval rating — certainly within Canada — and across the NBA landscape as a whole.

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