The sporting landscape in Salt Lake City is evolving rapidly, marking a remarkable transformation spearheaded by the entrepreneurial spirit of Ryan Smith. As the co-founder of Qualtrics and owner of several major sports franchises, Smith has significantly heightened Utah's prominence in the national sports arena.
Ryan Smith's Game-Changing Moves
One of the most transformative moves in Utah sports history is Smith's acquisition of the NHL's Arizona Coyotes. Boldly moving the team to Salt Lake City, he rebranded them as the Utah Hockey Club, marking the city's entry into the professional hockey scene. This debut took place in October and was witnessed by a remarkably enthusiastic local crowd.
Smith's ventures do not stop at hockey. Known for his dynamic approach to sports ownership, he maintains a major stake in the Utah Jazz, a beloved NBA franchise. His deep involvement in the team has been multifaceted, supported by his partnership with basketball legend Dwyane Wade, who is himself a limited partner in the Jazz. Wade quipped, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," reflecting the cultural shift Smith's decisions are cultivating in Utah.
A Vision for Utah's Sports Future
Beyond basketball and hockey, Smith, along with his wife Ashley, has also vested interest in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals. This broad portfolio underscores a relentless drive to not just own teams, but to integrate them into the fabric of Utah's community life.
"We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," Ashley Smith noted, highlighting the teamwork and shared vision that propel their endeavors in sports.
The Broader Impact
Salt Lake City, now home to four professional sports clubs, is a testament to Smith's vision. This development reflects a broader ambition to transform downtown Salt Lake City itself. There are active redevelopment plans, although they have not been without scrutiny from the public. Nevertheless, Smith remains undeterred, leveraging his background and connections to realize this ambitious vision.
Smith's ties to Brigham Young University (BYU) further anchor him in the community. Not only does he co-teach a business class there, but he also supports the institution by engaging in sporting ventures that tie back to the school. A.J. Dybantsa, a top high school basketball prospect, has chosen BYU, aided by a notable NIL financial package, which Smith had a key role in facilitating. "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 explains, demonstrating his deep connection to the university and belief in its mission.
The decision-making process and open dialogue are crucial elements in Smith's business philosophy. "I want everyone to be all-in on whatever we're doing. And if people don't speak, they can't be all-in," says Smith, revealing the inclusive mindset he fosters within his organizations.
A New Era for Utah
As these developments unfold, Salt Lake City is seeing unprecedented growth in its sports culture. Gentry Anderson, a local sports enthusiast, captures the spirit of the transformation: "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." Indeed, Smith's approach is not merely transactional; it’s profoundly relational, as he invests time and resources into building a community alongside his sports enterprises.
Ryan Smith's foray into the realm of sports ownership is as much about vision as it is about action. His moves have not only reshaped the sporting map of Utah but have also set the stage for future generations to experience sports in fresh, innovative ways. With the momentum he has fostered, Utah's fans have much to anticipate as they rally around their hometown heroes — not just in the arenas and stadiums, but throughout the vibrant community that is redefining what it means to be a sports city.