Revolutionizing Sports in Utah: The Ryan Smith Era
Salt Lake City is experiencing a renaissance in its sporting landscape, largely credited to the visionary undertakings of entrepreneur Ryan Smith. With a deep-rooted connection to the state and a passion for sports, Smith has not only reshaped Utah's professional sports scene but also enhanced the city's reputation as a burgeoning sports hub.
A New Hockey Venture
The debut of the Utah Hockey Club in October marked a significant addition to Salt Lake City's sports offerings. This NHL addition, previously the Arizona Coyotes, made its way to Utah under Smith's ownership, adding to his impressive portfolio. The transition was more than just a change of name; it signified a bold effort to broaden the city's sports culture and fanbase.
Expanding the Sports Empire
Smith is not new to the sporting world. As the co-founder of Qualtrics, his acumen in business translated seamlessly into sports ownership. In 2020, he purchased the Utah Jazz, a move that made headlines with its $1.66 billion valuation. Now a major stakeholder, his influence extends further as he nurtures the team's growth and engages with fans. As Dwyane Wade, a limited partner of the Jazz, humorously noted, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," capturing the enthusiasm surrounding Smith's ventures.
Moreover, Smith's ambitions are far-reaching. "My dream is to become an NBA owner," he has expressed, underlining his commitment to deepening his involvement in the league.
A Prominent Local Influence
Smith's impact is not confined solely to professional sports. His influence touches various sectors, including Salt Lake City's redevelopment plans, despite facing public scrutiny. This integral role signals his dedication to uplift the community and improve urban infrastructure, further proving his commitment to Utah’s prosperity.
The Smith family’s association with sports extends to Major League Soccer with Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals. Ryan and his wife, Ashley, have injected vitality into these clubs, fostering a sporting environment where inclusivity and community engagement are paramount. As Ashley Smith emphasized, "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," illustrating their synergistic approach to sports management.
Educational Engagement
Beyond the operations in professional sports, Smith maintains close ties with Brigham Young University (BYU). Co-teaching a business class, he wears the hat of both mentor and entrepreneur, enhancing the academic experience with real-world insights. Reflecting on his relationship with the institution, he shared, "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot," showcasing a genuine commitment to fostering educational endeavors.
His influence at BYU is further underscored by the recruitment of top high school basketball prospect A.J. Dybantsa, attracted by a substantial NIL financial package. This move represents the amalgamation of sports and academia, spearheaded by Smith's strategic initiatives.
Future Prospects and Community Engagement
As Salt Lake City hosts four professional sports teams, the local sentiment is buoyed by Smith’s hands-on approach. Fans appreciate the ownership style characterized by personal interactions, as highlighted by a local resident, 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."
Ryan Smith's story is a testament to how business acumen and sporting passion can coalesce to transform a city's identity. While his ambitions continue to evolve, including aspirations to bring the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah, it is clear that his influence transcends the sporting domain, weaving into the fabric of Salt Lake City's future. His journey is not just about sports; it's about creating lasting legacies, fostering community spirit, and redefining the essence of sports ownership in the modern age.