The Combined Value Of All 29 NBA Teams In 1998 Was $6 Billion, Michael Jordan Had A $10 Billion Estimated Impact On The US Economy In The Same Yearby adminSeptember 19, 2022 Credit: Anne Ryan-USA TODAY via Imagn Content Services, LLC The NBA was on the verge of bankruptcy in the late 1970s. But it was saved by the epic rivalry of Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. The rivalry helped the league stand back on its feet and think about increasing its popularity. . Related Tags:Michael JordanNBANBA Media