In a bold move that underscores the evolving landscape of professional sports in Utah, entrepreneur Ryan Smith has acquired the NHL's Arizona Coyotes, relocating them to Salt Lake City and rebranding them as the Utah Hockey Club. This venture marks another strategic step in Smith's expanding sports empire within the state.
From the Desert to the Mountains
The opening night of the newly minted Utah Hockey Club was nothing short of spectacular. Celebrities and sports enthusiasts alike gathered to witness the beginning of this new era in Utah sports. Among the attendees were retired Basketball Hall of Fame guard Dwyane Wade and actress Gabrielle Union. Wade, who is a limited partner of both the Utah Jazz and the Utah Hockey Club, summed up the occasion with enthusiasm, stating, "I took a plane to watch hockey! Never thought I'd do that in my life."
Building a Sports Legacy
Smith's foray into hockey is not an isolated incident but a continuation of his deepening involvement in Utah's sports scene. In 2020, Smith co-purchased the Utah Jazz alongside Wade for a formidable $1.66 billion, propelling the team into a new era. Beyond basketball, Smith holds stakes in Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake and the National Women's Soccer League's Utah Royals. His multifaceted commitment highlights a dedication to building a sports legacy that extends beyond mere ownership.
Speaking on his entrepreneurial spirit and determination, Smith has been quoted saying, "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." This ethos seems to be woven into the very fabric of his approach to his sports investments and endeavors.
A Vision for the Future
Smith's ambitions are not limited to sports teams alone. He played a significant role in Utah's successful bid to host the 2034 Winter Olympics through a diligent delegation effort in Paris. This accomplishment further cements Utah's status as a hub for sports and demonstrates Smith's vision for the state's potential on the world stage.
Smith's influence also extends into the educational realm, where he acts as a guest lecturer at Brigham Young University. Recently, the university was thrust into the spotlight when basketball recruit A.J. Dybantsa committed to joining their ranks, spurred by an NIL deal rumored to be worth between $4 million to $7 million. While Smith is not financially involved in Dybantsa's deal, his presence in the university's ecosystem is undeniably impactful.
Community and Innovation
A co-founder of the tech company Qualtrics, which was sold to SAP for a staggering $8 billion, Smith is additionally involved in plans to rejuvenate Salt Lake City's downtown area. His investments reflect a deep commitment to the community and a desire to foster growth and innovation within the region.
Smith's eagerness to explore new avenues was candidly demonstrated during a conversation with NBA commissioner Adam Silver, where he offered, "Use me as a laboratory for the future of NBA broadcasts." This statement reflects his readiness to embrace innovation and enhance fan engagement, a vital component of modern sports entertainment.
Gentry Anderson, a local observer of Smith's ventures, noted the significance of his investments, commenting, "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." This commitment to accessibility and community integration resonates with fans and solidifies Smith's reputation as a dedicated steward of Utah's sports culture.
In conclusion, Ryan Smith's acquisition and relocation of an NHL team to Utah, alongside his diverse sports investments and community-oriented projects, underscore a dynamic vision for the future of sports in the region. With an eye on innovation, accessibility, and growth, Smith is not only reshaping Utah's sports landscape but also setting a precedent for how sports franchises can integrate with and enrich their communities.