Jazz Owner Ryan Smith Plans New Practice Facility to Propel Jazz and Mammoth Forward

Ryan Smith, the owner of the Utah Jazz and Utah Mammoth, has ambitious plans for his franchises. He is set to initiate the construction of a new practice facility in Sandy, Utah, on Tuesday morning. This facility aims to provide both teams with a state-of-the-art training environment, similar to successful models seen in professional sports.

Investment in Local Sports Culture

Since acquiring the Jazz in 2014 and the Mammoth in 2021, Smith has focused on building championship-caliber franchises. He envisions that the new practice facility will enhance team operations and culture. The facility will feature dedicated areas for each sport, emphasizing collaboration between the teams.

Facility Features and Design

• Square Footage: The facility will span approximately 100,000 square feet.
• Design Team: Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) is responsible for the design, incorporating feedback from players and coaching staff.
• Location: Situated in Sandy, this dual facility will allow both the Jazz and Mammoth to practice in close proximity.

This integration is rare in the sports world, with a few examples like the New York Rangers and Knicks sharing similar arrangements. Smith believes this model helps foster a unique environment where players are encouraged to experience the broader community beyond just downtown Salt Lake City.

Enhancing Player Experience

Smith aims to create a more relaxed atmosphere for players. He noted that the previous facility setup limited their experience of the vibrant Salt Lake Valley. The new practice campus is designed to alleviate downtown congestion and improve overall well-being for the athletes.

With the Jazz’s recent draft pick, Ace Bailey, and other player acquisitions, there is a focused effort to develop a competitive team. Coach Will Hardy and basketball operations head Austin Ainge are part of a robust strategy to excel in the coming seasons.

Future Prospects

The timing is crucial as the Jazz begin the regular season against the LA Clippers soon. Smith acknowledges the goal of winning championships but understands that building takes patience and strategic decisions.

“We just have to hit on these picks and keep stacking good decisions,” Smith emphasized, pointing out the importance of player recruitment alongside infrastructure development. With high hopes for upcoming seasons, the Jazz and Mammoth strive for excellence, not only in games but in their community engagement.