In their appearance on the David Letterman show, Magic Johnson and Larry Bird reminisce about their rivalry and the impact they had on transforming the game of basketball in the NBA. They discuss how their contrasting styles of play and competitive spirit elevated the level of competition in the league during the 1980s. Magic highlights the Showtime era of the Los Angeles Lakers, while Larry emphasizes the importance of teamwork and fundamentals with the Boston Celtics. Together, they reflect on how their on-court battles captivated audiences and helped popularize the NBA, paving the way for future generations of players. Their conversation with Letterman provides insight into their basketball legacies and the lasting impact they've had on the sport.