The Emergence of Utah as a Sports Powerhouse
In a remarkable transformation that's captivating the sports world, Salt Lake City has swiftly transitioned into a burgeoning hub of professional athletics. This evolution owes much to the dynamic leadership and strategic vision of Ryan Smith, a name now synonymous with sporting progress in Utah.
Smith, renowned as the co-founder of Qualtrics, significantly broadened his portfolio in 2020 by purchasing the Utah Jazz for an impressive $1.66 billion. His acquisition didn’t stop with the NBA, as he ventured into hockey, relocating the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes to Salt Lake City and rebranding them as the Utah Hockey Club. The club's October debut marked an exciting chapter for local sports enthusiasts, amplifying the city's professional sports scene.
For long-time basketball fans, Dwyane Wade’s involvement in the ownership of the Utah Jazz has added a layer of celebrity allure. As a limited partner, Wade has embraced the local culture enthusiastically. His newfound affection for hockey exemplifies this: "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," Wade shared, highlighting his personal investment in the area's sporting evolution.
The Vision of Ryan Smith
Ryan Smith's passion extends beyond mere ownership. His influence resonates through Salt Lake City's ambitious redevelopment plans, where he aims to foster an environment that supports both sports and community growth. Despite encountering public scrutiny over these plans, Smith’s commitment remains unwavering. He embodies a forward-thinking ethos, captured in his own words: "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’s endeavors are part of a broader vision, one where sports serve as a catalyst for statewide transformation. He’s deeply engaged with Utah's infrastructure, playing a vital role in attracting the 2034 Winter Olympics to the region. Such high-profile events promise to elevate Utah's status on the global stage, cementing its reputation as a destination for world-class athletic competition.
A Diverse Sporting Portfolio
The Smith family’s passion for sports doesn’t end with basketball and hockey. Ryan and Ashley Smith also hold significant stakes in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals. Their involvement across these leagues highlights a commitment not just to owning teams, but to advancing the quality and reach of sports in the area.
Adding to the state's ever-growing sports narrative is the relationship with Brigham Young University (BYU). Ryan Smith's connection with BYU transcends his professional obligations, as he actively co-teaches a business class there. "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 reflects, underscoring the depth of his commitment.
In a notable development, BYU recently secured A.J. Dybantsa, a top high school basketball prospect. Dybantsa’s choice was influenced by a substantial Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) financial package, signifying how collegiate sports are also benefiting from Utah's burgeoning sports reputation.
Community and Legacy
The influx of professional sports into Salt Lake City fosters not only economic benefits but also a sense of community pride. Gentry Anderson, a local sports fan, captures this sentiment well: "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 connection between ownership and the community is part of Smith's legacy, one that builds on the dream he openly aspires to—"My dream is to become an NBA owner."
With the addition of the Utah Hockey Club, Salt Lake City now boasts four professional sports franchises, transforming the city into a vibrant sports metropolis. This progress invites fans, investors, and athletes to join in on an exciting new chapter for Utah. The once understated state is now poised as a prominent player on the national sports front—a testament to the visionary spirit of pioneers like Ryan Smith.