The Sporting Revolution in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City, long recognized for its natural beauty and winter sports facilities, has transformed into a bustling hub for professional athletics, thanks significantly to the efforts of Ryan Smith. The enterprising Smith has made audacious moves across the sports landscape in Utah, earning himself a place among the most influential figures in the city's recent history. From acquiring sports franchises to spearheading redevelopment projects, Smith’s impact is palpable throughout the region.
This transformation began in 2020 when Ryan Smith acquired the Utah Jazz for a staggering $1.66 billion. The acquisition not only cemented his position as a major stakeholder in the NBA franchise but also set the stage for further ventures into the world of sports. Smith's involvement with the Jazz was just the beginning, as he soon turned his attention to the NHL.
When Smith purchased the Arizona Coyotes, few could have anticipated the bold step he would take next. With a visionary mindset, he relocated the team to Salt Lake City, rebranding them as the Utah Hockey Club. This move marked the city's first foray into major league hockey, debuting to much fanfare in October. This unprecedented decision has energized the local sports scene, contributing to Salt Lake City’s status as an emerging sports destination.
Smith’s reach extends beyond the ice and the court. His investments also include stakes in Real Salt Lake of Major League Soccer and the Utah Royals of the National Women's Soccer League, making Salt Lake City home to four professional sports clubs. It's a development noted by local sports enthusiast Gentry Anderson, who remarked, "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."
The impact of Smith's influence doesn’t stop with team ownership. He’s been instrumental in efforts to bring the 2034 Winter Olympics to Utah, showcasing the state’s readiness to host international events. While driving these sporting advancements, Smith is also deeply involved in the redevelopment of downtown Salt Lake City. However, this ambitious plan has not been without its challenges, facing some public scrutiny along the way.
In the realm of collegiate collaborations, Smith's connection to Brigham Young University is noteworthy. Despite never having attended the institution, he has cultivated a strong relationship with BYU, co-teaching a business class and investing in top talent such as A.J. Dybantsa, a high school basketball prodigy drawn to BYU with a significant name, image, and likeness (NIL) financial package. Reflecting on his relationship with the university, Smith stated, "I'm not a donor or involved with BYU because I went to school there. I'm there because I owe them a lot."
Smith’s dedication to fostering community engagement is echoed in his collaborative approach. Highlighting his leadership ethos, he shared, "I want everyone to be all-in on whatever we're doing. And if people don't speak, they can't be all-in." His wife, Ashley Smith, too, plays a pivotal role in these ventures, balancing their joint responsibilities. "We were thankful for the two of our brains combined and our different strengths," she noted.
The Utah sports scene has even caught the attention of NBA legend Dwyane Wade, who is a limited partner of the Utah Jazz. Wade's enthusiasm for Smith’s ventures is evident in his unexpected travels to support the local teams. "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," Wade exclaimed, highlighting the magnetic allure of Salt Lake City's growing sports culture.
As Ryan Smith continues to bolster Salt Lake City's reputation as a sporting powerhouse, his ambitions show no signs of waning. Echoing his future aspirations, Smith revealed, "My dream is to become an NBA owner." With his track record, it’s clear that whatever Smith dreams, Utah stands to benefit profoundly.