Utah's Sports Landscape Under Transformation: Ryan Smith's Visionary Leadership
In what can only be described as a dynamic transformation of Utah's sports landscape, entrepreneur Ryan Smith is rapidly becoming a formidable force in the industry. Helming multiple ventures, Smith's leadership and investment are redefining the future of sports in Salt Lake City, with his latest venture being the rebranding of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes into the Utah Hockey Club.
Smith's impact on Utah sports is nothing short of revolutionary. After purchasing the Utah Jazz for a staggering $1.66 billion in 2020, Smith has expanded his influence far beyond the world of basketball. His acquisition of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes and their subsequent relocation to Salt Lake City marks a critical milestone in Utah’s sporting history. The newly minted Utah Hockey Club made its debut this October, bringing professional hockey to the state.
Among those intrigued by this flourishing sports scene is NBA legend Dwyane Wade, who is also a limited partner of the Utah Jazz. Wade quipped, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," highlighting the unexpected allure of the sport’s debut in Salt Lake City. This statement underscores the magnetic pull of Smith's vision, drawing interest and attention from sports personalities far and wide.
Smith's involvement is not confined to the hockey rink or basketball court. He owns major stakes in Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake and the National Women’s Soccer League’s Utah Royals, making Salt Lake City a burgeoning hub for sports enthusiasts. "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," remarked Gentry Anderson, capturing the community's excitement and the unique accessibility Smith offers to both enthusiasts and athletes alike.
Apart from his sports ventures, Smith is deeply involved in the broader scope of Salt Lake City's development. His plans for downtown redevelopment have sparked discussions, facing scrutiny and generating interest among the public. Despite these challenges, Smith remains a pivotal figure in the initiative, which includes ambitions like bringing the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah, further cementing his legacy as an architect of the state's future.
Smith’s dedication extends beyond business interests and into academia, where he continues to shape minds as a co-teacher of a business course at Brigham Young University (BYU). Interestingly, Smith's ties to BYU are driven by gratitude, as he openly states, "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot." This sentiment reveals a personal connection to the region, fueling his involvement in both athletics and education.
His influence has likewise drawn burgeoning talent to Utah. Recently, A.J. Dybantsa, a top high school basketball prospect, elected to join BYU, a decision reportedly supported by a significant Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) financial package. This move not only highlights Smith's impact on nurturing future talent but also signifies his understanding of the evolving sports landscape where financial incentives play an increasingly critical role.
Ashley Smith, Ryan's wife, is also integral to his ventures, contributing her perspective and expertise to their joint efforts. She shared, "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," emphasizing the collaborative nature of their endeavors. Together, they are a powerhouse reshaping Utah's sports and cultural environment.
Ryan Smith’s dream, as he articulates, is "to become an NBA owner." While he currently holds a major stake in the Utah Jazz, this aspiration speaks to his broader ambitions. His philosophy, "I want everyone to be all-in on whatever we're doing. And if people don't speak, they can't be all-in," encapsulates his approach to leadership—engaging, inclusive, and forward-thinking.
Through strategic investments, community-centered initiatives, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Ryan Smith is undeniably scripting a new chapter in Utah's sporting narrative. His endeavors not only invigorate the state’s sports culture but also paint a compelling picture of what visionary leadership can achieve in the realm of professional sports. As the state stands on the cusp of a sporting renaissance, it is Ryan Smith's vision, driven by passion and purpose, that is steering Utah towards a promising future.