A New Era for Hockey and Utah
In a move that has transformed the sporting landscape in Utah, entrepreneur Ryan Smith has added another feather to his cap with the acquisition and relocation of the NHL's Arizona Coyotes to Salt Lake City, rebranding them as the Utah Hockey Club. This bold step has ignited widespread interest and enthusiasm across the region, marking a pivotal shift in the state’s sports culture.
The opening night of the Utah Hockey Club was a star-studded affair, with celebrities such as retired Basketball Hall of Fame guard Dwyane Wade and his partner, Gabrielle Union, gracing the event. Wade, who exclaimed, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," underscores the novelty and excitement surrounding the team’s inaugural game. His involvement is more than just as a celebrity guest; he holds a vested interest as a limited partner of both the Utah Jazz and the freshly minted Utah Hockey Club, expanding his influence beyond the basketball court.
The Visionary Behind It All
Ryan Smith's journey as a sports mogul has been nothing short of transformative. Co-owning the Utah Jazz with Dwyane Wade, after acquiring the team for a staggering $1.66 billion in 2020, Smith has demonstrated a profound commitment to nurturing sports in Utah. His portfolio doesn’t end there; he also holds stakes in Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake and the National Women’s Soccer League’s Utah Royals.
Smith's sports empire has not only elevated Utah's presence in professional sports but also had a significant socio-economic impact, exemplified by his involvement in rejuvenating Salt Lake City’s downtown area. His ambition is reflected in the comment: "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." This determination has propelled Smith to achieve a triumphant bid delegation for the 2034 Winter Olympics in Utah, solidifying the state’s reputation as a burgeoning hub for major sporting events.
Educational and Entrepreneurial Ventures
Beyond sports, Ryan Smith is known for his business acumen as the co-founder of Qualtrics, a tech company that was sold to SAP for an impressive $8 billion. His influence extends into academia, where he serves as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University, sharing his insights and knowledge with aspiring minds.
Furthermore, Smith maintains a clear boundary between his various ventures, as evidenced by his lack of financial involvement in A.J. Dybantsa’s NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal, which is speculated to be valued between $4 million to $7 million. This separation reinforces Smith’s focus on strategic investments and partnerships that align with his vision.
A Strong Sporting Community
Gentry Anderson, a fan and keen observer, remarked, "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." This statement captures the community-centric approach Smith has fostered, creating a vibrant sporting environment in Utah that resonates with fans and locals alike. Anderson's sentiments are echoed by the growing sports community, thrilled to witness the convergence of top-tier professional sports teams in their backyard.
As Utah continues to evolve as a sports destination, Ryan Smith’s dynamic leadership stands at the forefront, driving forward a vision that is inclusive and innovative. In collaboration with influential partners like Dwyane Wade, Smith has not only elevated Utah's sports status but also enriched its culture and economy, pointing towards a promising future for the state.