In a vibrant turn of events for sports in Salt Lake City, the city's sports landscape has expanded significantly, highlighted by the transformation and relocation of the NHL's Arizona Coyotes. Now, the Utah Hockey Club, this hockey squad makes its debut and adds to the burgeoning sports culture in Utah's capital.
Ryan Smith: The Visionary Magnus
Behind much of this transformation is Ryan Smith, a name that resonates strongly within the sporting community. Ryan Smith, co-founder of Qualtrics, is not only a pivotal force in the business world but also a passionate sports enthusiast and investor. His acquisition of the Utah Jazz in 2020 for $1.66 billion marked the beginning of a new era. With Dwyane Wade stepping in as a limited partner, the Jazz have received a fresh infusion of leadership and vision.
Smith's sporting ambitions didn't stop at basketball. He reacquired and relocated the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes to Salt Lake City, rebranding them as the Utah Hockey Club. "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," said Dwyane Wade, reflecting the excitement and surprise that accompanies this bold move. Ryan Smith’s aim for a diversified sports presence in Utah is clearly underway with this latest venture.
Multipronged Sporting Investments
Smith's passion and influence stretch further than just ice hockey and basketball. Alongside his wife Ashley, he holds significant stakes in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals. Their engagement does more than just boost the sports profile of the city—it strengthens community ties and drives local pride.
"We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," said Ashley Smith, highlighting the couple's collaborative approach to sports investment and innovation.
Transforming Salt Lake City
Ryan Smith’s influence is not limited to sports teams and venues alone. He is actively involved in the redevelopment plans for downtown Salt Lake City. This ambitious project, while necessary for fostering innovation and growth, hasn’t been free from scrutiny. Public opinion shows a divided stance; yet Smith remains undeterred, showcasing the same resilience and tenacity that defines his sporting endeavors.
Beyond real estate, Smith's vision extends to the global stage as he works toward bringing the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah. Such an achievement would mark a pinnacle of sporting significance for the area, further cementing Salt Lake City as a hub of sporting excellence.
From Classroom to Court
Ryan Smith’s commitment extends into education, engaging with Brigham Young University where he co-teaches a business class. His ties to BYU were further exemplified when A.J. Dybantsa, a top high school basketball prospect, chose to join BYU football with a notable NIL financial package attached. Smith's educational endeavors suggest a broader vision—preparing future leaders equipped with a distinct blend of academic and real-world experience.
"I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot," expressed Smith, emphasizing gratitude and a focus on giving back to institutions that had a positive influence on his life.
A Shifting Sports Paradigm in Utah
Salt Lake City's sports scene has never been more exciting. The presence of four professional clubs underlines a renaissance, driven by local ownership passionate about both sporting excellence and community engagement. "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," noted Gentry Anderson. This sentiment captures the fan-friendly culture that Smith's investments bring to Utah sport, enhancing the experience for patrons and athletes alike.
Ryan Smith's dream may well be to become an NBA owner, an aspiration that’s increasingly feasible given the level of influence and success he has attained across multiple sporting divisions. As he once articulated, "My dream is to become an NBA owner," reflecting a consistent trajectory towards leadership at the highest levels.
"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 remarked, emphasizing a culture of inclusion and active participation across his ventures. His strategic vision is a testament to progressive thinking, community engagement, and a deep-rooted commitment to innovation within the realm of sports and beyond.