How Michael Jordan Added $10 Billion to the US Economy in 15 Years

Michael Jordan established himself as the face of the NBA within years of his entry into the league. Known for popularizing the sport of basketball around the globe, His Airness’ impact in spreading basketball outside of the USA has been pivotal to the NBA’s international expansion. Despite his status as the GOAT, Jordan earned only $93 Million in his playing career — a paltry sum, when weighed against his contributions to the game. Fortune magazine estimated that MJ had a $10,000,000,000 impact on the US economy through his exploits on the hardwood.

According to a 1998 Fortune magazine report, Michael Jordan was estimated to have a $10 Billion impact on the US economy at the time. An impactful sum contributed throughout his 15 years in the NBA.

Jordan has long been associated with some of the biggest brands in the world. Most notably, his collaboration with Nike, which led to the creation of the Jordan Brand, was reportedly worth $5.2 billion in generated revenue to the sports apparel manufacturer. Additionally, he is believed to have brought in a $408 million boost for the other major products he endorsed.

The Fortune report also credited MJ with a $3.1 billion increase in sales of NBA-related merchandise. Not to mention a significant boost in television ratings, sponsorships, ticket sales, and much more. Add to that his work in the film industry, with projects like Space Jam and some of his other licensed sports videos, and it’s safe to say Jordan has impacted the US economy significantly.

The impact Jordan has had outside the sport of basketball is noteworthy. He is a role model to many, and his influence is not just limited to the economy. Rather he is an icon who has changed the lives of millions of people around the world.

MJ’s ownership of the Hornets and 23XI Racing have also impacted his economic influence

With a net worth of $2 Billion, Michael Jordan has been able to do things that few athletes before him were able to do. In particular, his investments in the world of sports are quite significant. Jordan reportedly bought a majority stake in the NBA franchise, the Charlotte Hornets(then Bobcats) in 2010 for $180 Million, before selling it for a whopping $3 Billion recently.

Add to that his investment in the NASCAR team 23XI, and Jordan has put a dent in the sports world through his ownership of sports teams. A nod to his incredible business acumen.