In a move that has reshaped the sports landscape of Utah, entrepreneur Ryan Smith has gained attention as he brings yet another professional sports team to the state. The NHL's Arizona Coyotes, now rebranded as the Utah Hockey Club, have found a new home in Salt Lake City. This transition was not without its share of glitz and glamor. The opening night was graced by none other than NBA star Dwyane Wade and actress Gabrielle Union, adding a touch of celebrity dazzle to the event.
This acquisition marks a significant addition to the portfolio of Ryan Smith, who has rapidly become a major sports impresario in Utah. Beyond the NHL team, Smith holds ownership stakes across a range of professional sports franchises, including co-ownership of the Utah Jazz alongside Wade, a venture he embarked upon with a $1.66 billion purchase in 2020. His investments extend further into soccer with shares in MLS' Real Salt Lake and NWSL's Utah Royals.
A Shared Vision
Smith's collaboration with Wade is a testament to their shared vision for Utah sports. Wade, a retired Basketball Hall of Fame guard, is also a limited partner of both the Utah Jazz and the Utah Hockey Club. Reflecting on his evolving passion for ice hockey, Wade humorously admitted, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life." Such synergy between Smith and Wade signals a powerful partnership aimed at boosting the profile of sports in Utah.
Gentry Anderson, a figure intertwined with the local sports community, commented on this sports renaissance: "It's been surreal to be able to have three sports teams here now in Utah owned by someone who will come hang out with the fans." Indeed, Smith's presence at games resonates positively with the local fanbase, creating a familial and approachable figure in the professional sports sphere.
A Vision of Growth
Smith's impact isn't limited to just team acquisitions; he's actively engaged in long-term development plans for Salt Lake City, aiming to invigorate the downtown area. This visionary approach also expanded internationally, as Smith played a role in Utah's successful bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics, sealing the deal through a critical delegation journey to Paris.
Despite his expansive portfolio, Smith's influence remains personal and grounded. His roots in education are evident as he contributes time as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University. It’s here that basketball sensation A.J. Dybantsa committed to play, amidst rumors of a lucrative NIL deal valued between $4 million and $7 million. However, Smith clarifies his non-involvement in Dybantsa's financial arrangements, maintaining a clear boundary between his roles as an educator and entrepreneur.
Building on Success
Smith's entrepreneurial acumen is also well-regarded outside of sports. As the co-founder of Qualtrics, a tech company eventually sold to SAP for a staggering $8 billion, he exemplifies success across various business ventures. In a conversation with NBA commissioner Adam Silver, Smith expressed a willingness to experiment and innovate, stating, "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts."
Though much has been earned and achieved, Smith's philosophy remains grounded in ambition and self-determination: "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." This mantra seems to underpin his expansive yet focused sports investments and community initiatives.
Through strategic acquisitions, celebrity collaborations, and his commitment to local community enhancement, Ryan Smith is rewriting the playbook for sports culture in Utah. As he continues to expand his influence across multiple sectors, Smith's journey is marked by an innovative spirit and a deep-rooted commitment to his adopted home state, promising an exciting future for Utah's sports enthusiasts.