SPORTS

Warriors rally past Clippers, advance to Suns Friday

PUBLISHED Apr 14, 2026, 9:19 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Left 9%

Center 91%

Sources: 11

INGLEWOOD, Calif. The Golden State Warriors defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 126-121 in the Western Conference play-in game on Thursday night, with Stephen Curry scoring a game-high 35 points and Draymond Green making a decisive defensive play late. The loss eliminated the Clippers after they completed a 42-40 regular season comeback from a 6-21 start. Los Angeles finished the regular season having extended their franchise streak of winning seasons to 15, but will not advance after the play-in exit; Golden State advances to face the Phoenix Suns on Friday to contest the final playoff berth. Coaches and players offered postgame comments Thursday and both teams now shift focus to roster health and preparation for the next scheduled matchup.

By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Clippers start season 6-21 amid injuries and roster changes.
Clippers rally through season to finish 42-40 and reach play-in.
Late losses to Portland lock Clippers into the No. 9 seed.
Warriors mount comeback to beat Clippers 126-121 in play-in.
Warriors advance to face Phoenix Suns in final play-in matchup.

News Intelligence

If you're a basketball fan, this game was a rollercoaster. The Clippers' comeback season ended abruptly, while the Warriors move on. The drama of the play-in games adds a new layer to the NBA season. It's a reminder that every game counts.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 10

Who Benefited

The Golden State Warriors benefited most from the play-in win, as the victory preserved their season and earned them a Friday matchup against the Phoenix Suns.

Who Impacted

The Los Angeles Clippers suffered immediate elimination after losing the play-in game, ending their historic comeback despite finishing the regular season 42-40.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 10
Distribution:: Left 9%, Center 91%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The Golden State Warriors benefited most from the play-in win, as the victory preserved their season and earned them a Friday matchup against the Phoenix Suns.

Who Impacted

The Los Angeles Clippers suffered immediate elimination after losing the play-in game, ending their historic comeback despite finishing the regular season 42-40.