Salt Lake City has burst onto the national sports scene with a flourish thanks to the strategic maneuvers of Ryan Smith, a prominent figure whose influence is sweeping through the landscape of Utah's professional sports. Known for his business acumen as the co-founder of Qualtrics, Smith is reshaping the sports ecosystem in Salt Lake City, evidenced by his high-profile acquisitions and bold ambitions.
A New Hockey Home
The latest addition to Salt Lake City’s sports repertoire is the Utah Hockey Club, formerly the Arizona Coyotes, which has made its debut this October. This move was spearheaded by Smith, who purchased the NHL franchise and relocated it to give Salt Lake City its first taste of professional hockey. The rebranding of the team not only marks a significant moment for the city but also showcases Smith's vision for a diversified sports environment in Utah.
Expanding the Sports Portfolio
Beyond hockey, Smith's passion for sports is evident in his investment in the NBA's Utah Jazz. Since purchasing the team for $1.66 billion in 2020, he has emerged as a major stakeholder, with NBA legend Dwyane Wade joining him as a limited partner. Wade, who never imagined himself as a hockey enthusiast, humorously admitted, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," emphasizing the broadening appeal of Utah’s sporting culture.
A Broader Ambition
Smith's influence extends further with his stake in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals. This comprehensive investment strategy in Salt Lake City's sports teams shows Smith is not just about business; he's invested in building a vibrant community around sports.
An Eye on the Future
With ambitious plans on the horizon, Smith’s efforts don't stop at team acquisitions. He is also deeply involved in downtown Salt Lake City's redevelopment, a project that has brought its share of public scrutiny. Despite this, Smith holds steadfast in his commitment to the city's transformation. In parallel, Smith is playing a pivotal role in bringing the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah, which could further cement the state's standing as a major player on the global sports stage.
Smith’s engagement with the community doesn't stop at sports. He maintains a strong connection with Brigham Young University (BYU), co-teaching a business class there, driven by a sense of gratitude. "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot," Smith explained, underscoring his personal ties to the institution.
A Unified Vision
Smith's philosophy extends beyond business and education; he fosters a culture of unity and 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 asserts, highlighting his inclusive approach to leadership both in and out of the sports world. His wife, Ashley Smith, underlines this partnership ethos by saying, "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," reflecting the collaborative spirit that drives their endeavors.
The expanded presence of professional sports in the city has not gone unnoticed by the fans. Enthusiasts like Gentry Anderson remark on the novelty of having multiple sports franchises helmed by an owner who is actively engaged with the fanbase. "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," says Anderson, capturing the communal spirit fostered by Smith's approach.
With burgeoning sports culture under Ryan Smith’s stewardship, Salt Lake City is poised to become not just a hub for athletic talent, but a vibrant community center where sports and society intersect seamlessly. The revitalized city's sports community looks on eagerly as plans unfold, with a charismatic leader at its helm, promising an exciting future for Utah sports. As Smith dreams of expanding his influence, perhaps even to one day own an NBA franchise independently, the vision for Salt Lake City continues to grow, reflective of his expansive and ambitious mindset.