A Revolution in Utah Sports
In a city renowned for its picturesque landscapes and dynamic cityscapes, Salt Lake City now boasts a sports scene as vibrant as its surroundings. Spearheading this transformation is the visionary entrepreneur Ryan Smith, whose far-reaching influence has become a linchpin for Utah's burgeoning athletic culture.
The Utah Hockey Club's Arrival
October marked a milestone for Salt Lake City with the debut of the Utah Hockey Club. This chapter in the city's sports narrative materialized after Ryan Smith, a prominent figure in Utah's business and sports realms, acquired the NHL's Arizona Coyotes. Relocating the team to Salt Lake City, Smith rebranded it as the Utah Hockey Club, injecting fresh energy into the local sports arena. This move underscores Smith's ambitious approach to transforming Utah’s sporting landscape, echoing his previous commitments to bringing the 2034 Winter Olympics to the state.
A Community-Centric Vision
Ryan Smith's contributions to Utah extend beyond hockey. As a major stakeholder in the Utah Jazz, a decision he cemented with a $1.66 billion purchase of the NBA team in 2020, Smith continues to intertwine his business acumen with his passion for sports. Basketball legend Dwyane Wade also shares Smith’s vision, owning a limited partnership in the Jazz. Wade’s transition from the court to the backroom is marked by mutual enthusiasm. "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," Wade shared, emphasizing the cross-sport camaraderie and excitement surrounding Utah’s sports metamorphosis.
Investing in Utah’s Future
Smith's influence doesn't stop at basketball and hockey. He and his wife, Ashley Smith, hold stakes in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals. Their collective endeavors highlight an ethos of diversified investment in Utah sports. "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," Ashley said, acknowledging the collaborative effort driving their successful ventures.
Moreover, Smith’s strong ties with Brigham Young University (BYU) underscore his dedication to nurturing local talent. A.J. Dybantsa, a top high school basketball prospect, notably chose BYU, lured by a strategic NIL financial package, showcasing Smith’s influence in shaping youth sports development.
An Involved Citizen and Stakeholder
Ryan Smith’s commitment to Utah extends into civic engagement. He is actively involved in downtown Salt Lake City's redevelopment plans, contributing to the urban renaissance that seeks to bolster the city's appeal and functionality. However, these plans have not been without criticism, facing public scrutiny as part of the region's evolving landscape.
Smith’s approach to collaboration is marked by openness. "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 stated, articulating his inclusive philosophy. This sentiment resonates through his involvement with BYU, where he co-teaches a business class. "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot," he reflected, underscoring his personal and professional investment in local development.
A City Transformed
Salt Lake City stands out with four professional sports clubs under its belt, becoming a beacon of sports enthusiasm and fandom. Gentry Anderson, a community voice, captured the city's elation: "It's been surreal to have three sports teams [now four professional clubs] here in Utah owned by someone who will come hang out with the fans." The presence of an owner willing to engage with both the fanbase and the broader community signals a new era of accessibility and excitement for Utah sports.
Ryan Smith's aspirations continue to shape Utah’s identity as a sports hub. "My dream is to become an NBA owner," Smith once said, and through each strategic acquisition and heartfelt investment, he brings Utah closer to being a powerhouse in the national sports landscape.