Ryan Smith: Transforming Utah into a Sports Hub
Ryan Smith, the enterprising co-founder of Qualtrics, is redefining the sports landscape in Utah. With a vision as expansive as the Salt Lake City skyline, Smith has recently made waves by acquiring and relocating the NHL's Arizona Coyotes to Salt Lake City. This strategic move has birthed the Utah Hockey Club, adding yet another feather to his sports ownership cap.
Opening night at the Utah Hockey Club was more than just a sports event; it was a spectacle, attended by celebrities such as retired Basketball Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade and actress Gabrielle Union. The presence of stars like Wade, who is not only a Utah Jazz legend but also a limited partner in the Utah Hockey Club, underscores the magnetic allure of Smith's new venture. Reflecting on the shift in his own sports preferences, Wade quipped, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life."
Expanding Utah’s Sports Portfolio
Smith's ambition doesn't end on the ice. In 2020, he partnered with Wade to acquire the Utah Jazz for a staggering $1.66 billion, cementing his role as a key player in Utah's sports scene. But basketball and hockey are just chapters in Smith's expanding portfolio. He holds stakes in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake as well as the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals, illustrating his commitment to a diverse range of sports.
Gentry Anderson, who has closely followed this rise in Utah’s sports prominence, 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." Indeed, Smith's involvement in local sports reaches beyond ownership, creating a community atmosphere that resonates with fans across Utah.
A Visionary Leader with Bold Plans
Smith’s ambition stretches beyond the realm of team ownership. He played a pivotal role in securing the bid for the 2034 Winter Olympics to be hosted in Utah, showcasing his commitment to bringing world-class events to the region. His efforts aren’t confined to sports alone; Smith is also deeply involved in rejuvenating Salt Lake City’s downtown area, which could provide an economic boost for local businesses and further establish Utah as a destination for both tourists and investors.
A crucial aspect of Smith's philosophy is his belief in self-determination. As he puts it, "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." This mindset has undoubtedly fueled his diverse ventures across multiple sectors.
Influence in Academics and Broadcast Innovation
Smith’s influence reaches into academia, where he regularly serves as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University. His connection to the university is further underscored by the recent commitment of A.J. Dybantsa, who has clinched a groundbreaking NIL deal rumored to be between $4 million to $7 million. Although Smith isn't financially involved in this deal, his presence at the university signals a broader commitment to nurturing talent and education.
In the realm of sports media, Smith has expressed a visionary approach, as highlighted by his conversation with NBA commissioner Adam Silver: "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts." His openness to innovation signals promising changes that could set new standards in sports broadcasting.
A Future Defined by Community and Innovation
Ryan Smith’s endeavors are sculpting a new era for Utah, turning it into a dynamic sports hub with thriving community engagement. Whether it’s through transforming downtown Salt Lake City or hosting global events like the Winter Olympics, Smith is a force reshaping the state’s identity. As Utah continues to buzz with new opportunities, Smith’s ventures are undeniably heralding a future ripe with promise and potential.