Growing the Sports Landscape: Ryan Smith's Vision for Utah
Salt Lake City is emerging as a burgeoning hub for professional sports, largely driven by the vision and initiatives of Ryan Smith. Known for co-founding Qualtrics, Smith's relentless drive has been fundamental in transforming the city's sports landscape. Recently, the NHL's Arizona Coyotes embarked on a new journey under his ownership, relocating to Salt Lake City. They debut in October with a fresh identity as the Utah Hockey Club, marking a significant milestone in the state's sporting evolution.
Smith's impact in Utah sports isn't limited to hockey. He made headlines in 2020 with a $1.66 billion acquisition of the NBA's Utah Jazz, a franchise to which Dwyane Wade is also a limited partner. Wade, while commenting on his evolving relationship with Utah sports, expressed his surprise and delight, stating, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life."
Smith's ambitions stretch beyond court and ice. His strategic initiatives have expanded into Major League Soccer and the National Women's Soccer League, with stakes in Real Salt Lake and the Utah Royals. His commitment showcases his encompassing vision to elevate Utah as a state with a rich tapestry of sports offerings. Gentry Anderson, reflecting on the broader impact, commented, "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."
Entrepreneurial Spirit and Community Engagement
Ryan Smith's journey in professional sports ownership might appear serendipitous, but it is deeply rooted in his aspirations and broad vision. "My dream is to become an NBA owner," he shared candidly, a goal he realized with the purchase of the Jazz. His investments align with his broader community engagement goals, as he actively participates in the revitalization of downtown Salt Lake City. While these redevelopment plans have drawn public scrutiny, they underscore his dedication to shaping the city's future.
Smith's influence also extends into academia, where he co-teaches a business class at Brigham Young University (BYU), a relationship built on indebtedness rather than obligation. "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot," he revealed, a sentiment that resonates with his approach towards nurturing young talent. His engagement at BYU has recently seen a significant development: A.J. Dybantsa, a top high school basketball prospect, committed to the institution, enticed by a substantial NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) financial package.
The Broader Impact of Smith's Vision
Ryan Smith's influence is marked not only by expanding athletic endeavors but also by his collaborative spirit. His partnership with Ashley Smith, in both business and community projects, showcases a dynamic duo driven by complementing strengths. "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," Ashley noted, underscoring the collaborative synergy that fuels their endeavors.
Smith's dreams extend far beyond what has already been achieved. He plays a pivotal role in bringing the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah, a monumental task that exemplifies his ambitious vision for the state's future. As Salt Lake City's sports scene continues to evolve, Smith remains at the forefront, pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
His endeavors reflect a broader narrative of engagement, innovation, and dedication, underlined by a leadership style that encourages inclusivity and active participation. "I want everyone to be all-in on whatever we're doing. And if people don't speak, they can't be all-in," he emphasized, illustrating his commitment to a collaborative community ethos.
With Salt Lake City now home to a diverse array of professional sports teams and ongoing development initiatives, the city stands on the cusp of a new era. Backed by Smith's relentless ambition and genuine passion, Utah's sports landscape is poised for continued growth and success.