The state of Utah is becoming a burgeoning hub for major sports franchises, thanks in part to the business acumen and sports enthusiasm of entrepreneur Ryan Smith. His recent acquisition of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes and their relocation to Salt Lake City marks yet another milestone in Utah's evolution as a sports destination, with the team now taking to the ice as the Utah Hockey Club.
A New Era for Hockey in Utah
The inaugural game of the Utah Hockey Club not only electrified the local fanbase but also drew attention from sports celebrities. Among those present was Dwyane Wade, the iconic retired basketball guard turned limited partner of both the Utah Jazz and the Utah Hockey Club. Wade, who is also a co-owner of the Utah Jazz alongside Ryan Smith, captured the excitement of the evening, remarking, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life."
This gesture of support from a basketball legend underscores the cultural and commercial convergence in Salt Lake City, emphasizing sports as a communal experience. It highlights Ryan Smith's influence in transforming the sports landscape of Utah and bringing in high-profile partners like Wade.
Expanding a Legacy
Ryan Smith is a name that has become synonymous with sports in Utah. Not only did he help engineer the purchase of the Utah Jazz in 2020 for a staggering $1.66 billion, but he also holds stakes in Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League’s Utah Royals. His involvement extends beyond ownership; Smith has shown dedication to engaging with fans and supporting local sports culture.
Smith's commitment to Utah goes beyond sports. His role in securing the 2034 Winter Olympics for Salt Lake City through a successful bid delegation in Paris speaks volumes about his vision for the region. Such initiatives underline Smith’s long-term investment in the state's social and economic development.
A Visionary Off the Field
Beyond his sports ventures, Smith is noted for his extensive business achievements. As the co-founder of Qualtrics, the tech powerhouse acquired by SAP for a colossal $8 billion, Smith has demonstrated a forward-thinking approach that goes beyond conventional business practices. His engagement with this innovative spirit is evidenced by his conversation with NBA commissioner Adam Silver, in which he invited Silver to "use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts."
Smith’s entrepreneurial journey seems built on the ethos of taking initiative, a sentiment captured in his own words: "No one's really given me anything in life. If you wanted something, you have to go get it. It just doesn't happen any other way."
Investing in the Future
Ryan Smith’s influence extends into educational circles as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University, where his perspectives shape the minds of the next generation. The university's sports sphere has also witnessed a recent buzz with A.J. Dybantsa’s commitment, whose NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal is speculated to be between $4 million and $7 million. Although Smith is not financially involved in this deal, his presence as a mentor enriches the institution's offerings.
Smith’s engagement with the community doesn't end with education. He is an active participant in efforts to rejuvenate Salt Lake City's downtown area, blending urban revitalization with his broader vision for regional growth.
A Homegrown Sports Empire
Perhaps the most poignant testament to Smith’s impact on Utah sports comes from fan Gentry Anderson, who remarked, "It's been surreal to be able to have three sports teams [four professional clubs] here now in Utah owned by someone who will come hang out with the fans." This speaks to Smith's accessibility and his genuine connection to the community, distinguishing him from the often aloof world of sports franchise ownership.
As Utah continues to grow as a prime sports destination, Ryan Smith's vision and commitment to both athletic and community development achieve a harmonious synergy. His contributions signal more than mere business transactions; they represent a dedication to seeing his home state thrive in the sports realm and beyond.