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Apr 18, 2026

Jalen Green powers Suns past Warriors to clinch 8th seed in NBA play‑in tournament

AI Summary
The Phoenix Suns defeated the Golden State Warriors 111‑96 in the Western Conference play‑in game, securing the league’s eighth seed. Jalen Green’s 36 points and a dominant first‑quarter run propelled Phoenix, while Stephen Curry managed only 17 points on inefficient shooting. The win sets up a first‑round matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Jalen Green’s 36 points sparked the Phoenix Suns to a decisive 111‑96 victory over the visiting Golden State Warriors on Friday, clinching the Western Conference’s eighth postseason seed.

The Suns capitalized on 21 turnovers by Golden State, converting them into 30 points. After a narrow escape in their opening play‑in game against Portland, Phoenix held firm this time, building an early lead with a 13‑0 run that put them ahead 33‑15.

Golden State’s offense sputtered, managing only 15 points in the first quarter – their lowest quarterly output since a 14‑point quarter against the Thunder on March 7. Stephen Curry struggled, finishing with 17 points on 4‑of‑16 shooting and just three of ten from three‑point range.

In the second quarter, the Warriors rallied, with rookie Brandin Podziemski contributing a team‑high 23 points (10 in the half) and pulling down 10 rebounds. Phoenix, however, rebounded with an 11‑1 run, highlighted by two more three‑pointers from Green, to regain control.

Devin Booker added 20 points, eight assists and six rebounds, while Jordan Goodwin chipped in 19 points, nine rebounds and six steals. The Suns shot an efficient 52.4% in the opening quarter, setting the tone for the rest of the game.

Late‑game drama unfolded when Draymond Green fouled out with just over a minute left. A brief altercation between Green and Booker resulted in technical fouls for both, and Green was ejected.

With the win, Phoenix advances to face the defending champion top‑seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round, beginning Sunday.

Other play‑in results: In the Eastern Conference, the Orlando Magic secured the eighth seed by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 121‑90, while the Hornets’ 10‑year playoff drought continues.