Ryan Smith Redefines Utah's Sports Scene with Strategic Investments
In a game-changing move for Utah's sports landscape, visionary investor Ryan Smith has brought professional hockey to Salt Lake City. The NHL's Arizona Coyotes have been relocated and rebranded, now known as the Utah Hockey Club. The energy was electric at the club’s opening night, an event graced by the presence of basketball royalty Dwyane Wade and actress Gabrielle Union.
Retired Hall of Fame guard Dwyane Wade, who has transitioned into a new role as a limited partner in both the Utah Jazz and the newly minted Utah Hockey Club, reflects a burgeoning sports empire in Utah. "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," Wade commented, highlighting the unique bond he shares with Utah's sports arena. Wade leverages his influence and star power alongside Smith, as both co-owners of the NBA's Utah Jazz, a team they acquired for $1.66 billion in 2020.
But Ryan Smith's influence extends beyond basketball and hockey. His investment portfolio in Utah's sports domain is substantial, also including MLS' Real Salt Lake and NWSL's Utah Royals. Smith's commitment to sports in Utah is a testament to his vision for the area, contributing not just financially but also actively working towards Utah’s bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics.
ABC's of Business and Sports
Smith’s hands-on approach is evident in every facet of his endeavors. He offers his wealth of experience as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University, where he also sees ties to young athletic talent. A.J. Dybantsa’s recent commitment to BYU is making waves, particularly with rumors of his NIL deal ranging between $4 million to $7 million. Although not financially involved in this venture, Smith's broader impact is felt within the educational and athletic community at BYU.
The business-savvy Smith co-founded tech giant Qualtrics, a company he later sold to SAP for an impressive $8 billion. His entrepreneurial mindset transcends the boundaries of technology, ushering in a new era of sports and urban development in Salt Lake City. Smith’s plans to rejuvenate the city’s downtown area further his mission to create a dynamic environment where sports, business, and community thrive together.
Walking the Talk
Gentry Anderson aptly captures the community sentiment, "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." Smith’s personal engagement with fans and the community sets a new standard for sports ownership, ensuring that the success of his teams resonates with the people of Utah.
Smith’s journey is underscored by a personal philosophy that has guided his ventures. "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," he states, embodying the drive that has made him a fixture in Utah’s sporting and entrepreneurial circles.
Future Prospects
The intricate tapestry of sports and business woven by Ryan Smith indicates no signs of slowing down. His prolificacy suggests a catalytic fusion of celebrity influence, innovative business acumen, and community-centered initiatives. The potential for future ventures, such as pioneering new broadcasting strategies with the NBA—"Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts," he proposed to NBA commissioner Adam Silver—heralds exciting prospects on the horizon.
As Salt Lake City emerges as a genuine sports destination, Ryan Smith's strategic maneuvers promise to continue redefining the intersection of sports, business, and community life well into the future. Through Smith's dynamic leadership, Utah’s multi-sport prominence assures that fans will not only witness thrilling sports but will partake in a broader revitalization, championing the spirit and enthusiasm synonymous with the state.