In a move that has reshaped the sports landscape in Utah, Ryan Smith has made significant strides in diversifying and expanding his portfolio of professional sports teams in the state. From acquiring the NHL's Arizona Coyotes and establishing the Utah Hockey Club to owning stakes in various other sports franchises, Smith's influence is keenly felt across the sporting community.
A New Era for Hockey in Utah
The acquisition of the Arizona Coyotes by Ryan Smith marks a new chapter for hockey in the region, as the team has been rebranded as the Utah Hockey Club and relocated to Salt Lake City. The opening night of their season was a star-studded affair, with celebrities like Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union in attendance. Wade’s involvement is particularly noteworthy, as he is a retired Basketball Hall of Fame guard and a limited partner in both the Utah Jazz and the Utah Hockey Club. "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," Wade shared enthusiastically, emphasizing the excitement surrounding hockey's new home in Utah.
Sports Empire in the Beehive State
Ryan Smith's vision for the state's sports landscape doesn't end with hockey. In 2020, Smith, alongside Dwyane Wade, acquired the NBA's Utah Jazz for a substantial $1.66 billion. Their partnership has only strengthened since, now encompassing both basketball and hockey. Additionally, Smith holds stakes in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals, showcasing his commitment to a variety of sports.
A local fan, Gentry Anderson, further accentuates Smith's impact, saying, "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."
Beyond Ownership: Community and Innovation
Ryan Smith's ambitions extend beyond mere ownership. His involvement in the successful bid to bring the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah demonstrates his dedication to the region's development. Smith’s role in rejuvenating Salt Lake City's downtown area is also significant, reflecting his commitment to the community at large.
Smith’s innovative spirit is nowhere more evident than in his conversation with NBA commissioner Adam Silver, where he said, "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts," suggesting an openness to exploring new and cutting-edge broadcasting methods.
Nurturing New Talents
A.J. Dybantsa's commitment to Brigham Young University marks an exciting addition to the local sports scene. While rumors suggest that Dybantsa's NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal could range from $4 million to $7 million, Smith has clarified that he is not financially involved in this deal. However, Smith does contribute to the university as a guest lecturer, furthering ties with the institution and its athletic endeavors.
A Legacy in the Making
Ryan Smith's journey in business began long before his foray into the sports world. As the co-founder of Qualtrics, a tech company that was sold to SAP for a staggering $8 billion, Smith has a proven track record of success and leadership. His philosophy, as he stated, "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," underscores his approach to both business and sports management.
In the constantly evolving landscape of professional sports in Utah, Ryan Smith’s influence is both transformative and inspirational. From redefining hockey in the state to fostering a robust sports culture, his endeavors are paving the way for a new era of athletic excellence and community growth. Smith's story is one of ambition, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of progress—qualities that resonate well with sports enthusiasts both in Utah and beyond.