Utah's Sporting Evolution: The Ryan Smith Era
In a sweeping move that signifies Utah’s burgeoning reputation as a hub for professional sports, Ryan Smith, a pivotal figure in business and sports, has successfully relocated and rebranded the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes as the Utah Hockey Club. This significant change extends Smith's influence, who already has a commanding presence in Utah’s sporting landscape. The opening night of the Utah Hockey Club’s debut season was a star-studded event, marking a milestone in the state’s sports history.
The Rise of a New Sports Culture in Utah
Ryan Smith's latest venture saw famed basketball veteran Dwyane Wade gracing the Utah Hockey Club’s opening night, accompanied by actress and wife, Gabrielle Union. Such appearances solidify the state’s magnetic pull in the sports world. Wade, a Basketball Hall of Fame guard, is not just an observer but an integral part of this new era. As a limited partner in both the Utah Jazz and the Utah Hockey Club, his ties to the state run deep. Wade’s presence at the club's inauguration sent ripples through both the sporting and celebrity landscapes. "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," Wade remarked, highlighting the unlikely yet powerful convergence of NBA and NHL fandom in Utah.
While Smith’s impact is undeniable, Gentry Anderson captures the essence of this transformation, saying, "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." The shared ownership ethos highlights Smith’s commitment to building a community-centric sports culture.
From Tech Mogul to Sports Visionary
Ryan Smith is no stranger to ambitious undertakings. He co-founded Qualtrics, a tech powerhouse sold to SAP for a striking $8 billion. His venture into sports began with the acquisition of the Utah Jazz for $1.66 billion in 2020, where he joined hands with Dwyane Wade as co-owners. Beyond basketball, Smith has also invested in Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals, showcasing his broad vision for Utah's sports future.
Smith’s approach towards building a sports empire in Utah comes with his traditional grit. "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," he asserts, underscoring the determined mindset that fuels his ventures.
A Broader Vision for Utah
Beyond sports, Smith is making strides to rejuvenate Salt Lake City’s downtown area, aligning with the city’s aspirations to host global events. His role in Utah's successful bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics further cements his impact, laying the foundation for an enhanced infrastructural and cultural footprint of the state.
In education, his role as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University exemplifies his commitment to community and next-generation leadership. Despite his extensive involvement with the university, Smith remains free of financial engagement in A.J. Dybantsa’s much-rumored NIL deal, suggesting a more advisory, mentorship role focused on long-term growth and ethics.
The Future Broadcast Vision
Smith’s influence also reaches into how sports are broadcasted. In a conversation with NBA commissioner Adam Silver, he proposed, "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts." This forward-thinking approach could redefine how fans engage with sports from the comforts of home or on the move.
Ryan Smith's expanding sports empire invites a broader narrative – one where Utah emerges as a vibrant and multifaceted sports milieu. His leadership, investments, and community-focused initiatives tell a story of how one individual, armed with a clear vision and unwavering determination, can transform a state, drawing legends like Dwyane Wade into a mosaic of sports, fame, and innovation. With Smith at the helm, Utah is poised for an exhilarating future on the world sporting stage.