Utah Jazz Owner S. Ryan Smith Passes Away at 46

Salt Lake City, UT – In a tragic turn of events, Utah Jazz owner S. Ryan Smith has passed away at the age of 46. The cause of his death has been attributed to a sudden and severe heart attack, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The news has sent shockwaves through the sports community and beyond, as Smith was not only a prominent figure in the NBA but also a highly respected entrepreneur and philanthropist.

S. Ryan Smith, co-founder of the tech giant Qualtrics, purchased the Utah Jazz in 2020, bringing a fresh wave of enthusiasm and vision to the franchise. Under his ownership, the Jazz experienced a period of revitalization, marked by both on-court success and off-court community engagement. Smith’s commitment to the team and the state of Utah was evident in his efforts to foster a culture of excellence and inclusivity within the organization.

Born and raised in Utah, Smith was deeply connected to his roots. He co-founded Qualtrics in 2002 alongside his father, Scott Smith, and brother, Jared Smith. The company, which specializes in experience management software, grew rapidly under Smith’s leadership, culminating in a landmark acquisition by SAP for $8 billion in 2019. Despite this monumental success, Smith chose to remain actively involved in the company while also pursuing his passion for sports and community development.

Smith’s tenure as the owner of the Jazz was marked by significant achievements. He was instrumental in securing the team’s long-term future in Utah, investing in state-of-the-art facilities, and championing social justice initiatives. His leadership extended beyond the court, as he worked tirelessly to address systemic inequalities and support underrepresented communities.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his condolences, stating, “Ryan Smith was a visionary leader whose impact on the Utah Jazz and the broader NBA community cannot be overstated. His dedication to excellence and his unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the world will be sorely missed.”

Smith’s passing has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him. His family released a statement expressing their grief, saying, “Ryan was a loving husband, father, and friend. His passion for life, his boundless generosity, and his unwavering dedication to his family and community will always be remembered. We ask for privacy during this difficult time as we mourn his loss.”

The Utah Jazz organization also released a statement, paying tribute to Smith’s legacy: “Ryan Smith’s vision and leadership transformed our franchise. He was not only our owner but a cherished member of the Jazz family. His spirit will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the values he instilled in our organization.”

Funeral arrangements for S. Ryan Smith are yet to be announced. The community is invited to honor his memory by continuing his efforts to support and uplift those in need, reflecting the compassionate and generous spirit that defined his life.