Ryan Smith's Sports Dynasty Expands in Utah
Ryan Smith continues to make waves in the sports world with his latest acquisition and relocation of the NHL's Arizona Coyotes to Salt Lake City, transforming them into the Utah Hockey Club. A celebrated figure in the local and national sports community, Smith is steadily building a sports empire in Utah, enhancing the state's reputation on the professional sports map.
The Utah Hockey Club’s inaugural season opened with a touch of stardom as celebrities Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union graced the event. Wade, a retired Basketball Hall of Fame guard, has a vested interest as a limited partner in both the Utah Jazz and the Utah Hockey Club. His presence at the opening game underscored the increasing interconnection of sports and entertainment figures within Utah’s burgeoning sports scene. Wade quipped, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," highlighting his newfound commitment to a sport he previously hadn’t followed as closely.
Smith’s Growing Portfolio
Smith, who acquired the Utah Jazz alongside Wade for $1.66 billion in 2020, has demonstrated a considerable influence and investment in Utah's sports infrastructure. His portfolio isn’t limited to basketball and hockey; he also holds stakes in MLS' Real Salt Lake and NWSL's Utah Royals. With these acquisitions, he ensures that Utah is not just a basketball state but a multi-sport powerhouse.
His ambitions don’t end at team ownership. Smith's efforts were pivotal in the successful bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics in Utah, marking another feather in his cap. This move not only reflects his commitment to showcasing Utah on the global stage but also provides a boost to the local economy and sports culture.
A New Era for Salt Lake City
Ryan Smith is also spearheading initiatives to rejuvenate Salt Lake City's downtown area, aiming to transform the city into a vibrant hub for sports and community activities. His actions embody his philosophy: "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."
Smith co-founded Qualtrics, a tech company sold to SAP for an impressive $8 billion, highlighting his acumen in both the business and sports worlds. His dual strengths are being leveraged to benefit both, as he seeks innovative ways to integrate technology and sports.
Navigating New Opportunities
Among the promising prospects drawn to Utah's growing sports arena is A.J. Dybantsa, who committed to Brigham Young University. His NIL deal, rumored to be between $4 million to $7 million, adds another layer of allure to the local sports landscape. While Smith is not financially involved in Dybantsa’s NIL deal, he remains influential as a guest lecturer at the university, inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs and athletes.
Gentry Anderson, an observer of Utah's sports evolution, noted, "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 sentiment reflects Smith’s approachability and dedication to fostering a strong community connection with fans across all sports.
Innovation in Broadcasting
Smith’s vision extends beyond ownership and infrastructure; he is also exploring innovations in sports broadcasting. In discussion with NBA commissioner Adam Silver, he remarked, "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts." This statement signals Smith's desire to push the boundaries of how fans experience and engage with sports, potentially setting trends that could ripple throughout the industry.
With strategic moves and ambitious projects, Ryan Smith’s influence on Utah’s sports landscape is undeniable. As his sports empire expands, the state benefits from enhanced visibility and a diversified sporting environment, drawing fans and athletes alike to the region. Ryan Smith is not just transforming Utah into a sports haven; he is reshaping the sports industry in a way few have attempted, laying the groundwork for future developments in the dynamic world of professional athletics.