Revitalization and Growth: Salt Lake City's Sporting Renaissance
In a remarkable transformation of Salt Lake City's sporting landscape, the recent debut of the Utah Hockey Club in October marks a new era. This exciting development is the work of entrepreneur Ryan Smith, a Utah native who is rapidly becoming a pivotal figure in the sports world.
Smith, the co-founder of Qualtrics, initiated a strategic move by purchasing the NHL's Arizona Coyotes. Emblematic of his commitment to his home state, Smith relocated the team to Salt Lake City, rebranding them as the Utah Hockey Club. This addition signifies the city's growing stature as a hub for professional sports, joining an impressive roster that includes the Utah Jazz, Real Salt Lake, and the Utah Royals, bringing the total to four major sports franchises.
Smith's impact extends beyond hockey. As a major stakeholder and limited partner in the Utah Jazz, his influence is profoundly felt on the basketball court as well. In 2020, Smith purchased the Jazz for a staggering $1.66 billion, further solidifying his desire to shape Utah’s sports culture. Dwyane Wade, a former NBA star, also lends his expertise as a limited partner. "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," Wade expressed, highlighting the shared enthusiasm and new possibilities in Salt Lake City.
Moreover, Smith and his wife Ashley have demonstrated a profound interest in other sports ventures. Their investments in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals signal a robust commitment to diversifying and enriching the area's sports offerings. Such endeavors are part of a broader strategy not just to boost local sports, but also to drive community engagement and economic growth.
However, Smith's ambitions are not confined to the playing field. His vision includes significant redevelopment efforts in downtown Salt Lake City, an initiative that has not been without challenges. While public scrutiny persists, the overarching aim is to create a vibrant, multifaceted urban center that thrives both culturally and economically.
Smith's relationship with Brigham Young University (BYU) further exemplifies his multidimensional approach. Actively engaged with BYU, where he co-teaches a business class, Smith acknowledges the university's role in his personal and professional journey. "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 explains, reflecting a genuine connection to the institution.
BYU continues to draw significant talent and attention, recently attracting A.J. Dybantsa, a top high school basketball prospect. The allure of a substantial NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) financial package played a crucial role in Dybantsa's decision, demonstrating the university's competitive pull within the collegiate sports arena.
With eyes on the future, Smith's involvement in bringing the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah represents a crowning achievement in his vision for the state. Such an event could solidify Utah's reputation as a premier sports destination, attracting significant global attention and tourism.
Smith’s dynamic leadership has drawn both acclaim and critique. His aspirations extend to eventual NBA ownership, an ambition supported by remarks like, "My dream is to become an NBA owner." Meanwhile, Ashley Smith, his partner in many of these ventures, has underscored the strength of their collaboration, "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths."
The effect of these initiatives on the community is tangible. Gentry Anderson, speaking on the impact of these developments, noted, "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." This grassroots connection underscores a central tenet of Smith's philosophy: inclusivity and community involvement.
As Salt Lake City embraces this transformative period, the myriad ventures spearheaded by Ryan Smith and his associates promise a horizon rich with excitement and opportunity, rooted in a deep commitment to the state and its people.