The transformation of sports franchises often reads like a tale of ambition, partnership, and strategic vision. In the heart of this narrative is Ryan Smith, a dynamic entrepreneur who has reshaped the sporting landscape in Utah. Known for his business acumen, Smith’s impact on sports in the region is marked by multiple ventures including basketball, soccer, and hockey.
A New Era for Hockey in Utah
The world of ice hockey recently witnessed a significant shift as Ryan Smith acquired the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes. Demonstrating his commitment to Utah, Smith relocated the team to Salt Lake City, rebranding them as the Utah Hockey Club. This move not only fortified the state's presence in professional sports but also infused fresh energy into Utah’s sporting community. This bold leap was celebrated with an electrifying opening night, which saw celebrities like Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union grace the occasion. Their presence underscores the cultural and entertainment bond that Smith is forging in Utah through sports.
A Visionary Partnership with Dwyane Wade
Dwyane Wade's involvement in Utah sports transcends mere appearances. The retired Basketball Hall of Fame guard, who humorously remarked, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," is a limited partner in the Utah Hockey Club alongside holding a stake in the Utah Jazz with Ryan Smith. Their camaraderie extends beyond the Utah Jazz, which Smith and Wade co-own after a 2020 acquisition valued at $1.66 billion.
Integration of Sports Ventures
Ryan Smith’s footprint in Utah isn’t confined to hockey and basketball. His stakes in MLS’ Real Salt Lake and NWSL’s Utah Royals highlight a comprehensive vision for elevating sports in the state. This presence in various sports reiterates his dedication to building a sports culture that resonates with fans and athletes alike.
The significance of Smith's endeavors hasn't gone unnoticed by observers. Gentry Anderson insightfully remarked on the unique privilege Utah enjoys: "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."
Olympic Ambitions and Educational Contributions
Beyond professional sports, Smith has leveraged his connections and leadership skills to serve Utah on a global stage. Integral to the successful bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics, his role in the delegation to Paris underscores a commitment to bringing world-class events to the region.
His involvement with the local community extends through academia, where Smith contributes as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University. This connection is further reflected in the university-related sports headlines, such as A.J. Dybantsa’s enrollment and notable NIL deal, although Smith is careful to distance himself from the financial aspects of such deals.
Entrepreneurial Roots and Urban Development
At the core of Ryan Smith’s ventures lies a deep understanding of business and innovation. Co-founder of Qualtrics, a tech company that he sold to SAP for $8 billion, Smith brings strategic thinking and financial prowess to the botanical world of sports. His entrepreneurial spirit is perhaps best encapsulated 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.”
Smith’s ambition extends beyond the confines of sports. His plans to rejuvenate Salt Lake City’s downtown area reflect a holistic approach to community development, aiming to integrate sports seamlessly into the urban fabric and create a vibrant hub for sports, entertainment, and lifestyle.
What stands out about Ryan Smith is his bid to transform Utah’s sports identity not just through acquisitions and relocations but also through meaningful collaborations and community engagement. Whether it’s through bringing high-profile sports events to Utah or sharing his expertise with budding entrepreneurs, his role is redefining what it means to be a sports owner in the 21st century.