Salt Lake City is rapidly transforming into a hub for professional sports enthusiasts, with a bold, new chapter written by a familiar name in Utah's entrepreneurial ecosystem: Ryan Smith. Known for his dynamic business acumen, Smith has already imprinted his legacy on the state's sports landscape through significant investments across multiple leagues.
A New Era for Hockey in Salt Lake City
The recent debut of the Utah Hockey Club has invigorated the city's sports scene. This ambitious move came following Smith's acquisition of the NHL's Arizona Coyotes, a transaction that saw the team relocated and rebranded, marking a significant milestone for Salt Lake City's sporting identity. Smith's involvement marks not only a financial investment but also an emotional one for locals, offering fans an exhilarating new arena for hockey enthusiasts.
"I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," remarked Dwyane Wade, a limited partner of Smith's other sporting venture, the Utah Jazz. Wade's surprise and delight underline the transformative potential of Smith's initiatives in Utah's sports sector.
The Smith Empire in Utah Sports
Smith's influence isn't confined to the ice rink; he has broad stakes across Utah's sports spectrum. In 2020, he made headlines by purchasing the Utah Jazz for an impressive $1.66 billion, further embedding himself into the fabric of the NBA. His dream to immerse himself fully into the sport was once articulated when he said, "My dream is to become an NBA owner," a dream that has now been realized.
His involvement extends beyond the Jazz. Ryan and his wife, Ashley Smith, have vested interests in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals, cementing their dedication to bolstering Utah's athletic prowess across multiple fronts.
Vision Beyond Sports
Smith's impact is not restricted to immediate sporting achievements. He plays a pivotal role in redeveloping downtown Salt Lake City, although his plans have faced public scrutiny. This ambitious redevelopment project aims to prepare the city as a leading candidate for hosting the 2034 Winter Olympics, a vision integrally linked to Smith's broader ambition of elevating Utah's international profile.
Such extensive involvement reflects his devotion to community and legacy, drawing him back to his roots at Brigham Young University (BYU), where he contributes by co-teaching a business class. With BYU being a significant element in his life, Ryan stated, "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot."
Utah's Flourishing Sports Community
The addition of the Utah Hockey Club means Salt Lake City boasts four professional sports clubs, a testament to the region's growing reputation as a sports destination. This expansion reflects the hunger for a diverse sporting experience, one that Ryan Smith is keen to supply and support.
"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," said Gentry Anderson, echoing the communal appreciation for Smith's grassroots approach.
Further exemplifying Utah's burgeoning sports ecosystem is the recent announcement of A.J. Dybantsa, a high school basketball prodigy, selecting BYU alongside a substantial NIL financial package. This decision underscores the increasing appeal and competitive stature of Utah's sporting programs, facilitated by influential figures like Ryan Smith.
Smith concludes succinctly, expressing his leadership 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." His words resonate with a vision that extends well beyond ownership and investment, highlighting a commitment to fostering a collaborative, inclusive atmosphere.
Salt Lake City's narrative is continuously being reshaped under Smith's guidance – not just in the arena, but throughout the city's cultural and economic landscape. As its sports scene evolves, so too does its identity, forming a tapestry of enthusiastic fans buoyed by the tangible investments of a visionary leader.