Ryan Smith, a name synonymous with success in the world of tech entrepreneurship, has now firmly cemented his presence in the realm of sports by acquiring the NHL's Arizona Coyotes and rebranding the team as the Utah Hockey Club in Salt Lake City. This move adds to Smith's growing portfolio of sports investments that include stakes in the Utah Jazz, MLS' Real Salt Lake, and NWSL's Utah Royals.
The opening night of the Utah Hockey Club was nothing short of spectacular, featuring a star-studded guest list that included celebrities like retired Basketball Hall of Fame guard Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union. Wade, whose presence in Utah's sports scene is increasingly prominent, is a limited partner of both the Utah Jazz and the Utah Hockey Club.
Speaking to the excitement of having a new sports franchise in Utah, Wade remarked, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life." His partnership with Smith in the Utah Jazz, which they acquired for a whopping $1.66 billion in 2020, signifies an enduring commitment to Utah's sports culture.
Building a Sports Empire
Smith's transformation of Utah's sports landscape is remarkable. He not only owns multiple sports teams but also was instrumental in Utah's bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics. This visionary approach extends to other fields as well, as evidenced by his co-founding of Qualtrics, a tech company that was sold to SAP for $8 billion. Such achievements underline Smith's relentless drive and determination. As Smith himself 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."
Ryan Smith's influence is not limited to sports or business. He contributes to academia as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University, imparting knowledge to the next generation of leaders. His involvement in the university also aligns with the decision of A.J. Dybantsa to commit to BYU, although Smith is not financially linked to Dybantsa’s substantial NIL deal, rumored to be between $4 million to $7 million.
A Thriving Community
Smith's ambitions are also focused on the community. He has plans to rejuvenate Salt Lake City's downtown area, signaling his commitment to Utah's broader development. The impact of his sports franchises extends beyond entertainment, contributing to the area's cultural and economic dynamism. “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,” said Gentry Anderson, capturing the community's appreciation for Smith's hands-on approach.
Smith's ability to integrate sports into the fabric of life in Utah is a testament to his strategic vision. His innovative mindset is mirrored in his interactions with NBA commissioner Adam Silver, with whom he has discussed pioneering new approaches to basketball broadcasts: "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts," Smith suggested. Such initiatives could set new standards in how audiences engage with sports media.
As Ryan Smith's sports empire continues to grow, the state of Utah stands to benefit from his leadership and vision. With a growing list of professional teams under his belt and a commitment to community improvement, Smith is shaping Utah into a vibrant hub for sports and beyond. His journey from tech entrepreneur to sports magnate is not just a story of success but one of determination, innovation, and unwavering community spirit.