Ryan Smith: The Visionary Changing Utah's Sports Landscape
Salt Lake City has witnessed a significant transformation in its sports scene, thanks in large part to the efforts of entrepreneur Ryan Smith. The co-founder of Qualtrics has become a pivotal figure in Utah's sporting and cultural landscape, bringing new energy, investment, and ambition to the region.
Smith, with his passion for sports and business acumen, has made several strategic acquisitions and partnerships that have not only diversified Utah's sports offerings but have also placed the state on the map as a burgeoning hub for professional sports. October marked the debut of the Utah Hockey Club, a team born from Smith's acquisition of the NHL's Arizona Coyotes. The team has seamlessly fit into Salt Lake City's vibrant sports culture, further bolstered by the ever-growing enthusiasm of local fans.
Basketball Dreams and Investments
Ryan Smith is no stranger to bold moves. His purchase of the Utah Jazz for $1.66 billion in 2020 was a statement of intent, not just a financial investment. As a major stakeholder in the team, Smith has joined forces with Dwyane Wade, a former NBA superstar who is now a limited partner in the Jazz. This collaboration has brought a new sense of excitement and a touch of stardom to the club, sparking interest both locally and nationwide.
"I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," Wade remarked, underlining the unexpected yet thrilling nature of his involvement in Utah's expanding sports scene. Such enthusiasm resonates with Smith’s ambitions for Salt Lake City, as he mentioned, "My dream is to become an NBA owner."
The engagement goes beyond ownership, as Smith and his wife, Ashley, also hold stakes in Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals, further embedding their influence and passion in the state's sporting endeavors. Ashley notably expressed, "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," highlighting the collaborative dynamic that drives their ventures.
University Ties and Community Engagement
Beyond professional sports, Ryan Smith's commitment to Utah extends into education and community development. He maintains strong ties with Brigham Young University, not only as an involved supporter but also as an educator. Smith co-teaches a business class at BYU, where he draws on his extensive experience to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders. "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 said, emphasizing his gratitude and dedication to giving back.
This commitment to the community also manifests in Salt Lake City's redevelopment plans, in which Smith has taken an active role. His initiatives aim to revitalize downtown, albeit facing public scrutiny as change often does. Nonetheless, Smith remains steadfast, embodying his philosophy: "I want everyone to be all-in on whatever we're doing. And if people don't speak, they can't be all-in."
A.J. Dybantsa, a top high school basketball prospect, choosing BYU with a significant NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) financial package underscores the pull and investment in local talent and the future of sports in the region.
A Growing Sports Hub
With the addition of the Utah Hockey Club, Salt Lake City now boasts four professional sports clubs, a testament to the region's evolution into a dynamic sports destination. Fans and residents alike have embraced this growth, appreciating the accessibility and engagement offered by figures like Smith. Local fan Gentry Anderson captures this sentiment eloquently: "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."
As Ryan Smith continues to expand his vision for Utah, he not only changes the physical and economic landscape but also redefines what it means to be a sports owner in the modern era. His story is one of ambition, community focus, and a relentless drive to create something lasting and impactful, ensuring that Salt Lake City remains a vibrant, competitive hub on the sports map for years to come.