This could not have happened without bitcoin...

[hyphymikey]

http://thepiratebay.gq/old-pirate-bay-will-share-100000-with-devs-mods-and-uploaders/

The money will be shared through a contest. Starting next month $10,000 in cash prizes, paid in Bitcoin, will be awarded to the developers who contribute to the top features.

From March 1, OldPirateBay will have upload and moderation capabilities. This will include a ranking system where the top contributors and moderators can divide $5,000 in Bitcoin per group each month

[hongw]

I am not sure why you think this. There are plenty of ways they could handle payments if bitcoin was not being used. Granted less people would probably be wanting to participate however it would still be possible