The Utah Jazz is a popular professional basketball team based in Salt Lake City, Utah. It competes in the NBA (National Basketball Association) as a member of the league’s Western Conference. Over the years, the Jazz have built a loyal fan base with their consistent performances and passionate local support.
If you’ve ever wondered who owns the Utah Jazz, you’re not alone. Many fans are curious to know the people behind this legendary team. Let’s take a detailed look at the current owner of the Utah Jazz, how ownership has changed over the years, and how it impacts the team’s direction.
Who Owns the Utah Jazz in 2025? Ownership Details
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Majority Owner | Ryan Smith |
| Acquisition Year | 2020 |
| Purchase Price | $1.66 Billion |
| Main Co-Investor | Dwyane Wade (NBA Legend) |
| Company Managing Team | Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) |
| Previous Owner | Larry H. Miller Family |
| Team Location | Salt Lake City, Utah |
As of 2025, the Utah Jazz is owned by Ryan Smith, a billionaire entrepreneur and co-founder of Qualtrics, a software company based in Utah. Ryan Smith purchased the majority stake of the team in October 2020 from the Miller family, who had owned the franchise since 1985.
The sale included:
- The Utah Jazz
- Vivint Arena (home stadium)
- The Salt Lake City Stars (G-League team)
- Management of the Jazz Gaming eSports team
Who is Ryan Smith?
Ryan Smith is a Utah-born entrepreneur, known for building one of the most successful tech companies in the state — Qualtrics. He co-founded the company in 2002 and led it to massive success. In 2018, SAP acquired Qualtrics for $8 billion, though the Smith family remained involved in operations. In 2021, Qualtrics went public.
Aside from his tech success, Ryan is deeply passionate about Utah and its sports culture. His acquisition of the Utah Jazz is seen as a move to keep the franchise closely connected to local roots.
How Much Did Ryan Smith Pay?
Ryan Smith bought the Utah Jazz for approximately $1.66 billion, a deal that was approved by the NBA Board of Governors. At that time, the transaction was considered one of the biggest in Utah sports history.
Does Ryan Smith Own the Entire Team?
Ryan Smith owns the majority stake in the Utah Jazz, but he is not the sole owner. Since purchasing the team, he has brought in other investors, including high-profile names from sports and business.
Key Co-Investors:
- Dwyane Wade – The former NBA superstar joined as a part-owner in 2021. His role includes mentoring players and advising on team culture and branding.
- Other investors from the tech and business world have also joined Smith Entertainment Group (SEG), the company that now manages the Utah Jazz and other sports-related assets.
Smith Entertainment Group (SEG)
After buying the Jazz, Ryan Smith created Smith Entertainment Group, which now oversees:
- The Utah Jazz
- Real Salt Lake (Major League Soccer)
- Utah Royals FC (National Women’s Soccer League)
- Various sports and entertainment properties in Utah
This shows that Smith’s vision is bigger than just basketball. He wants to make Utah a hub for top-level sports and entertainment.
Why Was the Ownership Change Important?
Before Ryan Smith, the Miller family had owned the team for 35 years. Larry H. Miller was a beloved figure in Utah and was known for keeping the team rooted in Salt Lake City.
After Miller’s death in 2009, his family continued to run the franchise through the Larry H. Miller Group of Companies. However, in 2020, they decided it was time to pass the team to someone with new energy but the same commitment to Utah — and that person was Ryan Smith.
What Has Changed Under Ryan Smith’s Ownership?
Since taking over, Ryan Smith has brought a fresh, tech-savvy, and modern leadership style. Key updates under his leadership include:
- New branding and design updates for the team
- More involvement with local communities
- Better use of technology in fan experiences
- Player support programs and cultural improvements
- Major investments in eSports and digital entertainment
He’s also focused on long-term growth, not just short-term wins.
How Does Ownership Impact the Team?
The Jazz’s performance and fan support have always been strong, but ownership plays a huge role in:
- Hiring the right coaches
- Making key trades and signings
- Enhancing player development
- Investing in infrastructure and facilities
Under Smith, the team is focusing on sustainable success with an eye on championships and fan experience.
What Fans Think About Ryan Smith
Many Utah Jazz fans view Ryan Smith as the perfect owner. He’s from Utah, understands the culture, and genuinely cares about the community. His collaborative approach with players, coaches, and fans has brought a new energy to the organization.
Future Vision of the Utah Jazz
Ryan Smith’s goal is not just to win an NBA championship — though that is definitely on the agenda — but also to turn the Jazz into one of the most innovative and community-driven teams in sports.
The Utah Jazz’s growth, both on and off the court, is being shaped by his strategic leadership, smart partnerships, and commitment to excellence.
So, who owns the Utah Jazz in 2025? The answer is Ryan Smith, a tech entrepreneur, community builder, and passionate sports fan. Backed by a team of strong investors like Dwyane Wade, he is leading the Jazz into a new era of success.
His work reflects a balance between honoring the team’s deep roots and embracing a bold future.
FAQs
Q. Who is the current owner of the Utah Jazz?
The current majority owner of the Utah Jazz is Ryan Smith, the co-founder and executive chairman of Qualtrics. He purchased the team in 2020.
Q. Did Ryan Smith buy 100% of the Utah Jazz?
No, Ryan Smith bought the majority stake in the Utah Jazz from the Miller family, but Dwyane Wade also owns a small stake in the team.
Q. When did Dwyane Wade become part-owner of the Jazz?
NBA legend Dwyane Wade became a minority owner of the Utah Jazz in April 2021.
Q. Who owned the Utah Jazz before Ryan Smith?
The Miller family, led by Gail Miller, owned the team for more than 30 years before selling it to Ryan Smith in October 2020.
Q. Does Ryan Smith have any other sports ownership?
Yes, Ryan Smith is also involved in other sports ventures. He co-owns Real Salt Lake, a Major League Soccer team, and has interest in expanding his sports portfolio.
NBA Utah Jazz Official Website
Discover more from Who Is The Owner Of
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.