Phoenix and Golden State square off for play-in game

Golden State Warriors (37-45, 10th in the Western Conference) vs. Phoenix Suns (45-37, seventh in the Western Conference)

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:06am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game between the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors, with sharp planes of color representing the players and action on the court.The play-in game between the Suns and Warriors will showcase the raw energy and competitive spirit of the NBA playoffs in a fractured, cubist visual style.Phoenix Today

The Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors will face off in a play-in game to determine the eighth seed in the Western Conference Playoffs. The Suns are the higher seed at 45-37, while the Warriors finished the regular season at 37-45.

Why it matters

This matchup features two teams with strong histories and fan bases, adding extra excitement to the play-in game. The winner will advance to the first round of the playoffs, while the loser's season will end.

The details

The Suns are led by star guard Devin Booker, who is averaging 26.1 points per game this season. The Warriors are led by a young core including Brandin Podziemski and Gui Santos. Both teams have dealt with key injuries late in the season, with the Suns missing Mark Williams and Grayson Allen, and the Warriors missing Quinten Post, Jimmy Butler III, Moses Moody, and Kristaps Porzingis.

  • The play-in game will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026 at 10 p.m. EDT.

The players

Devin Booker

The star guard for the Phoenix Suns, averaging 26.1 points per game this season.

Brandin Podziemski

A young player for the Golden State Warriors, averaging 13.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.

Gui Santos

Another young player for the Golden State Warriors, averaging 12.1 points and 3.5 rebounds per game while shooting 51.2% over the past 10 games.

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What they’re saying

“This is going to be an exciting matchup between two talented teams fighting for a playoff spot. The fans are in for a treat.”

— Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns Guard

“We're looking forward to the challenge of facing the Suns. It's win or go home, and we're ready to compete.”

— Brandin Podziemski, Golden State Warriors Guard

What’s next

The winner of the play-in game between the Suns and Warriors will advance to face the top seed in the Western Conference Playoffs.

The takeaway

This play-in game between the Suns and Warriors features two storied franchises fighting for the final playoff spot in the West. The winner will have the chance to make a deep postseason run, while the loser will see their season come to an end.