Salt Lake City's Sports Scene Transformed by Visionary Ownership
Salt Lake City has become a burgeoning hub for professional sports, thanks in large part to the visionary moves of entrepreneur Ryan Smith. As the driving force behind the local sports renaissance, Smith's impact is palpable with the addition of multiple professional sports teams, innovative redevelopment plans, and a keen vision for the future.
The recent debut of the Utah Hockey Club in October took both locals and sports enthusiasts by surprise as the city embraced its latest sports franchise. The NHL's Arizona Coyotes were acquired and rebranded by Smith, breathing new life into Salt Lake City's sporting fabric. This development marks a significant milestone, as Salt Lake now boasts four professional sports clubs, contributing to the city's growing reputation as a sports-centric metropolis.
Ryan Smith's Broad Sporting Influence
Ryan Smith's influence spans beyond hockey. Known for his substantial business acumen as the co-founder of Qualtrics, Smith also holds major stakes in the Utah Jazz, Real Salt Lake of Major League Soccer, and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals. His diverse investments have made him a pivotal figure in Utah's sports landscape.
"My dream is to become an NBA owner," Ryan Smith once stated, a dream fulfilled through his acquisitions and partnerships. Smith significantly reshaped the Utah Jazz since purchasing the team for $1.66 billion in 2020, alongside prominent figures including Dwyane Wade, who is a limited partner in the franchise. Wade's engagement is genuine; he was heard expressing his newfound enthusiasm for the sport, stating, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life."
Integrator of Community and Business
Beyond his business ventures, Smith's commitment to Utah is evident in his civic endeavors. His active involvement in downtown Salt Lake City's redevelopment and his instrumental role in bringing the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah demonstrate his vision for an enriched community experience. These ambitious projects, however, have not been without controversy; his downtown redevelopment plan has faced public scrutiny.
Ryan Smith's presence in academia also highlights his dedication to future generations. His relationship with Brigham Young University, where he co-teaches a business course, stems from deep gratitude rather than obligation. "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot," Smith remarked, underscoring his investment in educational growth.
This educational influence extends to the sports world as well. Recently, top basketball prospect A.J. Dybantsa committed to BYU, swayed by a significant Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) financial package. This move signals an enhanced competitive edge for local universities in scouting elite talent, further enriching Utah's sporting environment.
A Personal Touch
Despite the breadth of his business and sporting achievements, Smith remains approachable and connected with the local sports fanbase. As noted by sports enthusiast Gentry Anderson, "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." This sentiment reflects the harmony between Smith's professional ambitions and his personable approach.
The partnership with his spouse, Ashley Smith, is another facet of his multifaceted life. The Smiths collectively share the helm in navigating their vast business and sporting engagements. "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," Ashley Smith shared, illustrating the collaborative dynamic that underscores their initiatives.
Through strategic acquisitions, community-centric endeavors, and a focus on inclusive growth, Ryan Smith has not only redefined Salt Lake City's sports landscape but also set the stage for enduring prosperity. As Salt Lake City's sports scene continues to evolve under his stewardship, the future promises an era of vibrant athletic and economic vitality.