New footage shows Masai Ujiri was shoved by security at NBA Finals (VIDEO)
New video footage appears to show that Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri was shoved twice by an Alameda County sheriff’s deputy while trying to reach the court after his team won the NBA Finals in June, 2019.
The new footage, first released by FOX KTVU 2 on Tuesday night, shows deputy Alan Strickland shoving Ujiri for allegedly not having the proper credentials to gain court access.
In the clip, you can see Ujiri quickly flash his credential keys before attempting to reach his championship team.
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Strickland tries to stop the Raptors’ exec with an extended arm before pushing him twice. Ujiri retaliated by pushing back the officer after exchanging words, before onlookers intervened.
In the aftermath of the initial incident, Strickland filed a federal lawsuit against Ujiri, the Raptors, Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, and the NBA, alleging he suffered “permanent disability” due to the altercation.
A Raptors spokesperson said they believe the new video shows the claims agains Ujiri are baseless.
“We are mindful this remains before the courts, but we have always maintained that the claims made against Masai are baseless and entirely without merit. We believe this video evidence shows exactly that – Masai was not an aggressor, but instead was the recipient of two very violent, unwarranted actions,” the spokesperson said.
“The events of that evening cast a pall over what should have been a night of celebration, and the year since. While Masai has the full backing of Raptors and MLSE as he fights this injustice, we are aware that not all people have similar support and resources. This is a spurious legal action that MLSE, the NBA, and especially Masai should not be facing.”
According to FOX KTVU 2, Strickland has not been back to work in more than a year and has a “criminal past” and is known for being “dishonest.”
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