SPORTS

Suns Defeat Warriors; Green Sparks Playoff Return Friday

PUBLISHED Apr 17, 2026, 11:32 AM ET

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Sources: 7

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Sources: 7

Phoenix — The Suns defeated the Golden State Warriors 111-96 Friday night at Mortgage Matchup Center as Jalen Green scored 36 and Devin Booker added 20 to secure the Western Conference play-in victory. Jordan Goodwin contributed 19 points, nine rebounds and six steals; the single-elimination result eliminated Golden State and finalized the No. 8 seed. Phoenix advances to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round beginning Sunday in Oklahoma City, with Game 1 scheduled soon after the play-in. Stephen Curry was held to 17 points on 4-of-16 shooting, Brandin Podziemski led Golden State with 23 in defeat, and the Suns shift immediately into playoff preparation and scouting reports.

By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Wednesday night: Golden State completed a comeback win over the Los Angeles Clippers in the play-in to advance.
Friday: Warriors traveled to Phoenix for the final Western Conference play-in game against the Suns.
Friday night: Phoenix defeated Golden State 111-96; Jalen Green scored 36 points.
Friday night: Jordan Goodwin added 19 points, nine rebounds and six steals; Stephen Curry finished with 17 points on 4-for-16 shooting.
Sunday: Phoenix will face No. 1 seed Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the playoffs.

News Intelligence

This game's outcome impacts your viewing schedule. If you're a basketball fan, especially of the Suns or Thunder, it's time to clear your Sunday for the first round of playoffs. Even if you're not, the high-stakes drama of playoff basketball is worth tuning in for.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 7
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 7

Who Benefited

The Phoenix Suns, led by Jalen Green and Devin Booker, benefited by securing a playoff berth, gaining postseason exposure, and advancing to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.

Who Impacted

The Golden State Warriors, including players, coaches and their fanbase, suffered elimination from the postseason following the 111-96 loss, ending their season and associated playoff opportunities.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 7
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 7
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The Phoenix Suns, led by Jalen Green and Devin Booker, benefited by securing a playoff berth, gaining postseason exposure, and advancing to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.

Who Impacted

The Golden State Warriors, including players, coaches and their fanbase, suffered elimination from the postseason following the 111-96 loss, ending their season and associated playoff opportunities.