Utahns Want More Than Just the Salt Lake Bees — What Pro Sports Would Make the State Truly Competitive?

Utah's Sports Landscape: A Growing Appetite

When you think of Utah, what comes to mind? The mountains, the outdoor recreation, or perhaps the vibrant city life in Salt Lake City and Provo. But one thing that's been quietly gaining traction is a strong, growing desire for more professional sports to call this state home.

"We've got the Salt Lake Bees now, but it feels like we're just getting started," said one longtime Utah resident who's been following the team since its inaugural season in 2025.

I've been covering sports across the country for years, and what I'm seeing in Utah is a compelling mix of nostalgia, civic pride, and ambition. It's not just about having a team — it's about building identity and community. And right now, Utahns are looking beyond their current minor league offering to consider what would make their state a real contender in the national sports conversation.

The Poll: What Do Utahns Really Want?

A recent survey by Deseret News and the Hinckley Institute of Politics asked Utah residents which professional sport they'd most like to see join the state's growing roster. While it's still early days for this poll, the results are fascinating.

• The National Football League (NFL) led the pack with 32% interest.
• Major League Baseball (MLB) followed closely behind at 29%.
• The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) was third, at 16%.
• And while still far behind, the National Hockey League (NHL) garnered 10% interest.

This isn't just a snapshot of current fandom. These numbers hint at something deeper — a cultural hunger for representation, competition, and local pride that extends beyond the minor leagues.

Why the NFL Leads the Way

The idea of an NFL team in Utah is not new. In fact, there's been talk for over a decade about a potential expansion or relocation. But what makes this interest so palpable now?

First and foremost, football has a unique way of bringing communities together. It's more than just a game — it's a shared experience. And while Utah may not be a major NFL market yet, the state's population growth, economic development, and youth engagement with sports suggest there's room to expand.

Additionally, there's a cultural shift in how sports organizations think about geography. The success of franchises like the Las Vegas Raiders or the Seattle Seahawks shows that expansion can work — especially if it's rooted in fan passion.

MLB's Steady Climb

Baseball is no stranger to Utah, and with the Salt Lake Bees thriving in the minor leagues, it's no surprise that major league interest is high. But what would a major league team offer that goes beyond a triple-A experience?

A top-tier MLB franchise could bring not just world-class players but also national attention, business investment, and increased tourism — all things Utah is eager to embrace. The idea of seeing the likes of the Los Angeles Dodgers or New York Yankees playing in Salt Lake City isn't far-fetched when you consider how many fans already follow these teams across the country.

The WNBA's Quiet Rise

While basketball is popular in Utah, the WNBA's appeal is often overlooked. But that could change quickly — especially as more women's sports gain visibility and support.

With the league already seeing growth across its fan base, a potential WNBA team in Salt Lake City could serve as both a catalyst for female athletics and a powerful statement about Utah's commitment to diversity and inclusion. The success of franchises like the Los Angeles Sparks or Seattle Storm shows that women's professional sports can thrive — and that's something Utah is poised to support.

NHL: A Long Shot, But Not Impossible

Ice hockey may be less likely to take root in a state more known for sunny days than snowfall. But that doesn't mean the idea is entirely out of the question.

With youth leagues growing and interest in outdoor recreation high, it's possible that a future NHL team could find traction. The league's expansion policies, combined with a strong local business case, could make it more viable than many people realize.

What It All Means for Utah

These numbers reflect more than just interest in new teams — they speak to a growing desire among Utahns for their state to be seen on the national stage. Whether it's through football, baseball, or basketball, there's a deep sense of identity and pride at play.

"We want to be known for more than just outdoor adventures," said a local sports journalist who has covered Utah sports for nearly two decades. "We want to be recognized as a place where major professional sports can thrive."

It's not just about the teams themselves, but the infrastructure, marketing, and cultural momentum they bring. As cities across the country vie for attention through sports, Utah is beginning to assert itself — and it's doing so in a way that feels genuine rather than forced.

Looking Ahead: What Comes Next?

The path from interest to reality is long and complicated. But as we've seen with cities like Las Vegas and Charlotte, the right mix of public support, private investment, and fan engagement can make even the most ambitious dreams come true.

Utah is not just a market — it's a community. And if history is any guide, communities that believe in themselves often find ways to get what they want. Whether that's an NFL team or something else entirely, Utahns are ready for the next chapter of their sports story — and I'm excited to watch how it unfolds.