In a remarkable shift that underscored his dedication to the sports scene in Utah, Ryan Smith has once again made headlines. The entrepreneur, known for his transformative ventures in both business and sports, has acquired the NHL's Arizona Coyotes and relocated the team to Salt Lake City, revamping it as the Utah Hockey Club. The move marks a significant enhancement to the region's sports landscape, transforming Salt Lake City into a burgeoning hub with a growing portfolio of professional sports franchises.
The opening night of the Utah Hockey Club was nothing short of a spectacle, featuring the presence of stars like Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union. Wade, a retired Basketball Hall of Fame guard, has become a limited partner not only in the Utah Jazz but also in the newly minted Utah Hockey Club. His enthusiasm was evident as he quipped, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life."
Wade's involvement with Smith doesn't end with hockey. In 2020, Smith co-acquired the Utah Jazz with Wade for a reported $1.66 billion, a partnership that signifies a robust mutual vision for sports in Utah. But Smith's vision is expansive; he also holds stakes in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women’s Soccer League's Utah Royals. His multifaceted participation in these franchises only solidifies Utah's position as a vibrant sporting venue.
Adding to his accolades, Smith has played a pivotal role in securing the successful bid for the 2034 Winter Olympics in Utah. This extensive engagement with sports on both local and international scales emphasizes the dramatic impact of Smith's ventures.
Smith, who is also known as the co-founder of Qualtrics—a tech firm that was sold to SAP for a staggering $8 billion—brings a unique blend of business acumen and passion for sports. His commitment is further reflected in his efforts to rejuvenate Salt Lake City's downtown area, contributing to a broader urban revitalization plan.
On a collegiate note, A.J. Dybantsa's commitment to Brigham Young University has stirred conversations, particularly around his rumored NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal, valued between $4 and $7 million. Interestingly, Smith isn't financially connected to Dybantsa's NIL package, yet his active involvement with BYU as a guest lecturer suggests a supportive role in fostering athletic and academic growth at the institution.
Gentry Anderson, echoing the sentiments of many Utah fans, commented on the evolving sports environment, highlighting how unique it is to have "three sports teams [four professional clubs] here now in Utah owned by someone who will come hang out with the fans.” This speaks to Smith's approachable persona and his commitment to community engagement.
A visionary leader, Smith lives by a mantra of initiative and hard work. Reflecting on his journey, 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." His proactive approach resonates not just in his acquisitions and partnerships, but also in his pursuit of innovative avenues, like his involvement with NBA broadcasts. "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts," he told NBA commissioner Adam Silver, unveiling his dedication to pushing the boundaries of sports entertainment.
Ryan Smith's growing sports empire signifies not just a shift in ownership but a cultural renaissance within Utah's sports narrative. With a dynamic set of stakeholders including figures like Dwyane Wade, Smith's ventures promise to redefine how sports are experienced and cherished in the region. As Utah embraces its expanded sports scene, fans and citizens alike look forward to the continued evolution Smith is bringing to their beloved state.