When Bryan Colangelo was relieved of his duties as General Manager of the Toronto Raptors, while maintaining his role as President of the team, many believed that the situation was unsustainable. Now just 6 weeks later, Colangelo has come to the realization that remaining in the position of President but having no say or control over basketball operations is just not workable.
Last night, Colangelo resigned the position of Team President. He released the following statement to the media.
“Having had a better chance to reflect on things for the past several weeks, I have concluded that stepping away from my position is the best course of action for the organization and everyone involved.”
“I would like to personally thank Larry Tanenbaum, Dale Lastman, MLSE’s ownership and family and the wonderful people of Toronto for the opportunity to serve them over the last seven years. The support, kindness and adulation that has been displayed to me and my family has been overwhelming, and our friendships and experiences will last a lifetime.”
Colangelo was hired as Raptors President and GM, replacing Rob Babcock, in February of 2006. He was previously General Manager of the Phoenix Suns. In 2007 he led the Raptors to their first and only Atlantic Division title, and was named NBA Executive of the Year. In 2008 the Raptors also makde the playoffs, but were unable to win a series in either year. They have not made the playoffs since, and 2013 marked the fifth straight season with no NBA playoff games at the Air Canada Centre.
Colangelo has been at the helm for a series of high profile moves that have not righted the ship for the ailing franchise, and is forever tied to 2006 first overall draftee Andrea Bargnani who has not developed as expected. Bargnani’s future with the club, as well as that of recently acquired sharpshooter Rudy Gay are the two biggest issues facing the Raptors’ new GM, Masai Ujiri.
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