Ryan Smith: Transforming Utah's Sports Landscape
In a flurry of strategic maneuvers that have reshaped the sports scene in Utah, entrepreneur Ryan Smith has made a significant mark. Smith, known for his role as co-founder of the tech giant Qualtrics, has rapidly expanded his influence from the tech world to the realm of professional sports. With his sights set on making Utah a hub of sporting activity, Smith has methodically acquired stakes in multiple franchises and undertaken efforts to cultivate a vibrant sports culture in the region.
From Arizona to Salt Lake: A Hockey Renaissance
One of Smith's boldest moves involved acquiring the NHL's Arizona Coyotes and relocating them to Salt Lake City, rebranding the team as the Utah Hockey Club. This move not only signifies a geographic shift but also invigorates Utah's sports offerings, providing local fans with additional avenues for entertainment and engagement.
The inaugural night of the Utah Hockey Club was nothing short of a spectacle. The event featured luminaries like NBA legend Dwyane Wade and his wife, actress Gabrielle Union. Wade, a Basketball Hall of Fame guard and limited partner of the Utah Hockey Club, captured the essence of this new chapter, exclaiming, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life."
Building a Sports Empire
Smith's trajectory in the sports sector began with his acquisition of the Utah Jazz in 2020. In partnership with Dwyane Wade, Smith secured the NBA franchise for an eye-popping $1.66 billion. His investments, however, extend beyond basketball and hockey. Smith also owns stakes in MLS' Real Salt Lake and the NWSL’s Utah Royals, demonstrating his commitment to developing Utah into a multi-sport state.
Emphasizing his hands-on approach, Smith said, "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 ethos is evident in his efforts to bring the Winter Olympics to Utah in 2034, where he played a critical role in a successful bid delegation held in Paris.
Educational and Community Initiatives
Ryan Smith's influence extends beyond professional sports and into the realm of education and community development. He has taken up the role of guest lecturer at Brigham Young University, nurturing the next generation of business leaders. While he is not financially involved in A.J. Dybantsa's substantial NIL deal, rumored to be between $4 million and $7 million, Smith’s connection to the academic community highlights his investment in the local socio-economic landscape.
At the heart of Smith’s mission is a vision to rejuvenate Salt Lake City's downtown area, creating an environment where professional sports and local culture harmoniously intertwine, providing both economic and social benefits to the community.
A Growing Legacy
Smith’s endeavors have not gone unnoticed. Gentry Anderson, reflecting on Smith’s expanding sports portfolio, 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 ownership approach not only cements Smith’s commitment to the local fanbase but also fosters a burgeoning sports culture in Utah.
Ryan Smith’s impact, of course, is not confined to the acquisition and branding of sports teams. His entrepreneurial spirit and visionary tactics have placed Utah on the sports map, enticing athletes, fans, and investors alike to see the state as a potential cornerstone of professional sports in the United States.
Smith's engagement with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver embodies his innovative mindset. "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts," Smith suggested, signaling his willingness to explore new technologies and fan experiences.
In the ever-evolving world of sports, Ryan Smith’s foray into team ownership and development heralds a new era for Utah. Under his stewardship, the state is poised for growth, riding the waves of change with a focus on community, innovation, and a shared love for the game.