Ryan Smith's Sporting Empire Grows in Utah
In a stunning move that has captured the attention of sports enthusiasts and business analysts alike, Ryan Smith has added another chapter to his burgeoning sports portfolio by acquiring the NHL's Arizona Coyotes and relocating them to Salt Lake City. Renamed as the Utah Hockey Club, this acquisition is more than a mere relocation—it's a strategic expansion of Smith's influence in the Utah sports scene, where he already holds significant stakes in multiple teams.
Dwyane Wade's Dual Role
The opening night of the Utah Hockey Club was a glitzy affair, attracting A-list celebrities such as Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union. Wade, a retired Basketball Hall of Fame guard, was not merely an attendee; he is a limited partner in the club, further deepening his ties with Smith. Wade’s involvement with the Utah Jazz alongside Smith and as a partner in the Utah Hockey Club underscores a harmonious business relationship, one that began with a groundbreaking $1.66 billion acquisition of the Jazz in 2020.
Reflecting on his newfound enthusiasm for hockey, Wade said, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life." It highlights the transformative impact Smith's ventures are having, not just on Utah sports, but on those involved in his enterprises.
One Man's Vision
Ryan Smith’s business acumen extends beyond the basketball and hockey arenas. His portfolio includes stakes in MLS' Real Salt Lake and the NWSL's Utah Royals, reinforcing Utah’s emergence as a key player in American sports. Smith played a crucial role in Utah's successful bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics, showcasing his commitment to elevating the state onto the global stage.
Smith’s journey from co-founding Qualtrics, which was later sold to SAP for $8 billion, to transforming Salt Lake City into a sports haven reflects an ethos captured 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."
His vision for revitalizing Salt Lake City's downtown area is yet another testament to his multifaceted impact on the region. By leading initiatives that integrate cultural, economic, and sporting interests, Smith is playing a pivotal role in reshaping the community landscape.
A Broader Impact on Education and Beyond
In addition to his sports and business exploits, Ryan Smith is invested in the future of education. As a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University, he is influencing the next generation of innovators and leaders. Although Adamant that he is not financially backing A.J. Dybantsa's substantial NIL deal, rumored to be between $4 million to $7 million, Smith’s presence in these academic corridors emphasizes the breadth of his influence.
Smith’s commitment to Utah goes beyond just building teams. Speaking with NBA commissioner Adam Silver, he remarked, "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts." His willingness to experiment with broadcasting reflects a forward-thinking approach that could redefine how fans engage with sports.
Community Connection
Gentry Anderson, reflecting on Smith’s impact, noted, "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 sentiment captures the grassroots connection Smith maintains with the community, fostering a sense of unity and pride among fans.
It's clear that Ryan Smith’s involvement in Utah goes beyond financial investments. It’s about crafting a legacy built on passion, innovation, and community engagement. Whether through groundbreaking sports deals, revitalizing urban centers, or fostering educational initiatives, Smith’s influence is unmistakable, echoing through bustling arenas and classrooms alike. As Utah continues its rise as a sports powerhouse, Ryan Smith stands at the helm, charting a course towards an exciting future.