Salt Lake City has increasingly become a hotbed for sports enthusiasts, with the recent debut of the Utah Hockey Club marking a significant milestone in the city's burgeoning sports landscape. The arrival of the hockey team not only adds to the spectrum of professional sports in the city but also epitomizes the ambitious ventures spearheaded by Ryan Smith, a prominent figure in Utah's sports and business communities.
In 2020, Ryan Smith made waves in the sports world by acquiring the Utah Jazz, an NBA team, for a staggering $1.66 billion. Smith, who is also the co-founder of Qualtrics, didn't stop there. His penchant for sports investments extended further when he purchased the NHL's Arizona Coyotes, relocating them to Salt Lake City and rebranding them as the Utah Hockey Club. His endeavors underscore a significant commitment to transforming Salt Lake City into a vibrant sports hub.
The Expanding Sports Scene
Salt Lake City's sports portfolio is now a dazzling array of four professional sports clubs, showcasing a burgeoning reputation as a city not just for its scenic beauty but for its sports fervor. "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," remarked Gentry Anderson, capturing the enthusiasm and community-centric approach that Smith embodies.
The dynamism doesn't end with hockey. Ryan and Ashley Smith hold stakes in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals. Their investments highlight a diversified interest in fostering sports culture across different arenas, enriching Salt Lake City's sports narrative.
A Visionary at Work
Ryan Smith’s influence stretches beyond ownership into the broader developmental aspirations for Salt Lake City. His involvement in downtown redevelopment plans and dedication to bringing the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah illustrate his vision for a unified sports and community-oriented future. While these projects have received their share of scrutiny, Smith's resolve remains unwavering.
"My dream is to become an NBA owner," Smith once revealed, shedding light on his ambitions not just in managing and owning teams but in shaping a legacy. This dream is materializing in his hands-on approach, where he's been integral in many facets of Utah's sports identity. His commitments towards the community are apparent in his active participation in education, as he engages with Brigham Young University and co-teaches a business class there.
Championing Education and Talent
Smith’s educational ties have borne fruits, as evident in high school basketball prodigy A.J. Dybantsa choosing BYU, bolstered by a substantial NIL financial package. Smith's quote, "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot," echoes his enduring connection and gratitude towards the institution. His involvement offers a symbiotic relationship that could attract more top-tier talent to the region.
The Smith Style
At the heart of Smith's ventures is his managerial ethos, driven by collaboration and inclusivity. "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 stated, emphasizing a leadership style that values input and holistic involvement from his team and community.
His wife, Ashley Smith, collaborates with him in many areas. She reflected on their partnership, saying, "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths." This synergy appears to be a cornerstone of their success in driving the multiple projects and responsibilities they undertake.
A Ripple Effect
The ripple effect of Smith’s sports enterprises is palpable, fostering a sense of unity and pride in Salt Lake City. Former NBA star Dwyane Wade, who is a limited partner of the Utah Jazz, humorously noted, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," illustrating how Smith's initiatives are not only reshaping local sports but also drawing interest from notable personalities across the nation.
As Salt Lake City navigates this new era, its sports landscape, energized by Ryan Smith’s visionary investments, is poised for a vibrant future.