In a bold move that has sent ripples through the sporting world and placed Utah firmly on the map as a burgeoning hub for professional sports, Ryan Smith has acquired the NHL's Arizona Coyotes and moved them to Salt Lake City. The franchise has been reborn as the Utah Hockey Club, marking a significant development in Utah's sports landscape.
The Rise of the Utah Hockey Club
The debut game of the Utah Hockey Club’s season was not just a sporting event; it was a celebrity-studded affair. NBA legend and retired Basketball Hall of Fame guard Dwyane Wade, along with actress Gabrielle Union, graced the opening night with their presence. Wade's appearance was particularly fitting, given his integral role as a limited partner of both the Utah Jazz and the newly minted hockey team.
"I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," Wade exclaimed, capturing the enthusiasm and excitement surrounding this new chapter in Utah sports.
Smith's Expanding Sports Empire
Ryan Smith is no stranger to the business of sports. In 2020, along with Dwyane Wade, he became the co-owner of the Utah Jazz, acquiring the team for a staggering $1.66 billion. His involvement doesn’t end there. Smith also has stakes in MLS' Real Salt Lake and NWSL's Utah Royals, showcasing his commitment to bolstering Utah’s prominence in professional sports.
Gentry Anderson, reflecting on Smith's influence, 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."
A Vision for Utah
Smith's vision extends beyond sports. He played a pivotal role in bringing the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah as part of a successful bid delegation in Paris. Furthermore, he is actively involved in initiatives to rejuvenate Salt Lake City's downtown area, positioning the city for a vibrant future.
His business acumen is well-documented, not least by his sale of tech company Qualtrics to SAP for an impressive $8 billion. Despite his substantial achievements, Smith remains grounded in his approach: "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."
Basketball, Broadcasts, and Education
A lifelong learner and educator, Smith also contributes to the academic community as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University. His influence there is broad; A.J. Dybantsa recently committed to BYU amidst rumors of a lucrative NIL deal of between $4 million to $7 million, though Smith is not financially involved in the agreement.
In his interactions with the NBA, Smith is pushing the envelope: "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts," he told NBA commissioner Adam Silver. His innovative mindset is likely to continue transforming how sports are enjoyed off the field.
A Lasting Legacy
Smith’s efforts in Utah are more than just professional ventures; they represent a personal commitment to the state. By investing heavily across multiple sports, securing marquee events, and enhancing cultural infrastructure, he is creating an integrated sports landscape that could redefine Utah's identity for years to come.
In many ways, the arrival of the Utah Hockey Club is symbolic of Smith’s broader ambitions. As the arena lights illuminated the excitement of opening night, it became clear that Smith’s vision for Utah is just beginning to unfold.