A New Era for Utah Sports
The sports landscape in Salt Lake City is undergoing a transformation, spearheaded by Ryan Smith, a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for elevating Utah's presence on the national and international sports stage. His latest venture, the acquisition of the NHL's Arizona Coyotes and their subsequent relocation to Salt Lake City as the Utah Hockey Club, marks a significant milestone in this ambitious journey.
Smith, who is also the co-founder of Qualtrics, has proven his commitment to Utah not only as a proponent of sports but also as an influential figure in the community's redevelopment and cultural enhancement. His growing influence is evident in his strategic moves across various sports and business landscapes, including his key roles with the Utah Jazz and Real Salt Lake. In 2020, Smith purchased the Utah Jazz for a staggering $1.66 billion, demonstrating his dedication to fostering top-tier basketball in the state.
His dream, as Smith articulates, is to continue building a hub where sports thrive and fans are an integral part of the experience. "My dream is to become an NBA owner," he shared, highlighting his ambition and dedication to basketball.
The Debut of Utah Hockey Club
The recent debut of the Utah Hockey Club adds a fourth professional team to Salt Lake City's vibrant sports community, further solidifying Utah's reputation as a burgeoning epicenter for sports in the United States. Smith's vision for a flurry of professional sports activity within the city aligns with an overarching plan to transform downtown Salt Lake City. His ambitious redevelopment efforts, though occasionally scrutinized by the public, promise to usher in new opportunities and enhance the vibrancy of the city.
Dwyane Wade, a limited partner of the Utah Jazz and a prominent figure in basketball, expressed his rediscovered enthusiasm for hockey following the establishment of the Utah Hockey Club. "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," Wade remarked, reflecting the growing excitement surrounding the team. Wade's involvement underscores the blend of basketball and hockey cultures, fostering an environment where fans can immerse themselves in multiple sports.
Engagement and Commitment
In addition to his sports team ventures, Smith's influence extends to educational and philanthropic arenas. Known for his engagement with Brigham Young University, where he co-teaches a business class, Smith emphasizes the importance of nurturing future generations. "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot," he asserted, illustrating his commitment to giving back to the institutions that shaped him. Smith's efforts have also attracted top talent, such as A.J. Dybantsa, a standout high school basketball prospect who chose BYU, enticed by a significant NIL financial package.
His partnership with Ashley Smith, both personally and professionally, has been pivotal in realizing their shared goals. "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," Ashley stated, emphasizing their collaborative approach in navigating the demands of sports management and community involvement.
Future Prospects
As Utah positions itself to potentially host the 2034 Winter Olympics, Smith's influence is expected to be integral in bringing the prestigious event to the state, highlighting his broader vision for Utah as a key player in the global sports arena. Yet, while some aspects of his redevelopment plans have faced public scrutiny, Smith remains steadfast in his approach to fostering an inclusive and enthusiastic sporting environment. "I want everyone to be all-in on whatever we're doing. And if people don't speak, they can't be all-in," Smith declared, emphasizing his dedication to community involvement and transparent communication.
The palpable excitement surrounding the burgeoning sports scene in Utah is clear. Gentry Anderson perfectly encapsulates this sentiment: "It's been surreal to have three sports teams—four professional clubs—here now in Utah owned by someone who will come hang out with the fans." This level of engagement between the team owners and their communities is not only a rare phenomenon but a testament to the vibrant sports culture blossoming under Smith's leadership.