SPORTS

Green's 36 Powers Suns Into Playoffs Against Thunder

PUBLISHED Apr 18, 2026, 2:03 AM ET

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PHOENIX — Jalen Green scored 36 points and the Phoenix Suns defeated the Golden State Warriors 111-96 in the Western Conference play-in game Friday night, securing a playoff berth. The Suns controlled the tempo throughout the contest; Jordan Goodwin added 19 points and six steals while Devin Booker contributed 20. Oklahoma City will host Game 1 on Sunday at 12:30 p.m., matching the No. 8-seed Suns against the defending champion Thunder. The Warriors' season ended with Stephen Curry limited to 17 points on 4-of-16 shooting; Devin Booker and Draymond Green were ejected late after exchanging technical fouls, and Phoenix advances to the first round.

By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Regular season concluded and Phoenix entered play-in position earlier this week.
Phoenix lost its earlier play-in matchup with Portland, then returned to the final play-in on Friday.
Friday night: Suns defeated Warriors 111-96; Jalen Green scored 36.
Warriors were eliminated; Stephen Curry held to 17 points on 4-of-16 shooting.
Phoenix earned the No. 8 seed and will face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder Sunday.

News Intelligence

If you're a basketball fan, this is a thrilling time. Your team could be next to make a surprise run in the playoffs. The Suns' victory shows that anything can happen. Check the NBA schedule and don't miss the next game.

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Who Benefited

The Phoenix Suns organization, including players Jalen Green and Jordan Goodwin, coaches, and local fans benefited by clinching a playoff berth and gaining momentum heading into the first-round matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Who Impacted

The Golden State Warriors and their supporters suffered as the loss eliminated them from postseason contention, ending their season and denying further playoff opportunities for Stephen Curry and the roster.

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