In a bold and ambitious move that has the sports world buzzing, Ryan Smith, co-founder of tech giant Qualtrics and a major figure in Utah's sports landscape, has acquired the NHL's Arizona Coyotes, relocating them to Salt Lake City and rebranding them as the Utah Hockey Club. This maneuver marks another milestone for Smith, who has become an influential force in Utah's dynamic sports environment.
An Opening Night to Remember
The launch of the Utah Hockey Club was nothing short of a spectacle, with celebrities such as Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union gracing the opening night. Wade, a Hall of Fame basketball guard known for his illustrious career, has expanded his athletic and business endeavors by becoming a limited partner in both the Utah Jazz and the newly formed Utah Hockey Club. Wade, who shared his excitement for the sport by saying, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life," epitomizes the evolving, unexpected alliances forming in the sports sector.
A Titan of Utah Sports
Ryan Smith's ownership stakes go well beyond the hockey rink. In 2020, he made waves by acquiring the Utah Jazz for a staggering $1.66 billion, with Wade coming on board as a co-owner. Smith's influence extends across multiple professional leagues, with stakes in MLS' Real Salt Lake and the NWSL's Utah Royals, cementing Utah’s position as a burgeoning hub of professional sports. Gentry Anderson, reflecting on this sports renaissance in Utah, noted, "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."
Olympic Ambitions and Educational Involvement
Smith's ambitions are by no means confined to professional sports. His involvement in securing the Winter Olympics for Utah in 2034 following a successful bid delegation in Paris showcases his commitment to elevating Utah onto the global stage. Furthermore, Smith contributes to academia as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University, influencing future generations of business leaders and sports professionals. Notably, A.J. Dybantsa's recent commitment to Brigham Young University, rumored to come with an NIL deal valued between $4 million to $7 million, highlights the financial allure and academic prestige surrounding the university. However, Smith is not financially involved in Dybantsa’s NIL deal.
The Visionary's Philosophy and Legacy
Ryan Smith's journey from co-founding Qualtrics, which sold to SAP for $8 billion, to spearheading initiatives to rejuvenate Salt Lake City's downtown area, speaks to his forward-thinking approach and business acumen. His philosophy, "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," captures the determination driving his myriad endeavors.
Beyond his entrepreneurial and sporting achievements, Smith's influence extends to the entertainment industry. He is on a mission to redefine how fans experience the NBA, pitching to NBA commissioner Adam Silver with, "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts." This inclination towards innovation hints at a future where spectatorship is as captivating as the games themselves.
A New Chapter for Utah Sports
As Ryan Smith continues to enrich Utah's sports scene with his strategic endeavors, the synergy between business, sports, and community under his leadership heralds a promising trajectory for the state. The recent introduction of the Utah Hockey Club and Smith’s ongoing commitments reinforce his vision of transforming Utah into a sports mecca. With such dynamic changes underway, fans and critics alike are eager to see where this inspired journey leads next.