In a bold move that has sent ripples through the sports world, Ryan Smith, a prominent entrepreneur and co-founder of Qualtrics, has orchestrated a major shift in the National Hockey League landscape by acquiring the Arizona Coyotes and relocating them to Salt Lake City. The newly minted Utah Hockey Club marks the latest addition to Smith's burgeoning sports empire. His investment portfolio already includes stakes in the NBA’s Utah Jazz, MLS' Real Salt Lake, and NWSL's Utah Royals. This move not only underscores his dedication to championing Utah as a thriving sports destination but also reshapes the sports community in the region.
Smith’s keen eye for opportunity and growth was demonstrated by his acquisition of the Utah Jazz in 2020 alongside former NBA star Dwyane Wade for $1.66 billion. Wade, known for his legendary career with the Miami Heat, has transitioned smoothly into sports ownership. He has embraced his role as a limited partner in both the Utah Jazz and the newly formed Utah Hockey Club. This synergy was on full display during the club's opening night, where Wade and his wife, actress Gabrielle Union, made appearances, adding a touch of star power to the inaugural game.
The relocation of the NHL team to Salt Lake City is part of a broader vision that Smith appears to have for the region. "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," remarked Gentry Anderson, capturing the essence of Smith's community-focused ownership style. Smith’s active involvement extends beyond ownership, as he plays an influential role in rejuvenating Salt Lake City's downtown area, further solidifying his commitment to the community.
Yet, Smith's ambitions are not confined to sports alone. He had a significant hand in securing the bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics in Utah, demonstrating his vision for bringing international attention to the state. This endeavor is a testament to his commitment to leveraging his resources and connections to benefit Utah's cultural and economic landscape.
Smith’s educational roots also play a role in his multifaceted approach. As a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University, he imparts valuable insights to the next generation, exemplifying his belief that, "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." His active engagement in academia and sports speaks to an entrepreneurial spirit that continues to drive his ventures.
Recent developments in collegiate sports further highlight the dynamic nature of his network. A.J. Dybantsa's commitment to Brigham Young University, with an NIL deal rumored to be between $4 million to $7 million, showcases the increasing value and leverage athletes have in today's sports landscape. Although Smith is not financially involved in this deal, his influence within this ecosystem is undeniable.
For fans and athletes alike, these investments offer new opportunities and experiences. The mixture of sports, culture, and business Smith is curating in Utah provides a fresh blueprint for sports ownership that is both community-centric and forward-thinking. For Wade, who once quipped, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," this journey signifies a thrilling expansion of his sporting ventures into an uncharted arena. Wade's enthusiasm, coupled with Smith’s strategic foresight, suggests that the sports community in Utah is gearing up for a period of unprecedented growth and excitement.
Through these strategic moves, Ryan Smith is not just acquiring teams or events; he's cultivating a legacy and forging new pathways for sports, business, and community engagement in Utah. His work has solidified his status as a transformative figure in the sports world, and his journey is one that fans and fellow entrepreneurs will undoubtedly watch with great interest.