Jalen Green Reveals Curry's Advice After 36-Point Masterpiece

The Suns guard shared the wisdom Stephen Curry imparted after their recent matchup.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:40pm

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An abstract expressionist painting featuring explosive brushstrokes in vibrant neon colors, capturing the raw energy and competitive spirit of an NBA playoff game.The fiery intensity of the NBA playoffs is captured in a dynamic, neon-hued expressionist painting.Phoenix Today

In the aftermath of the Phoenix Suns' 111-96 victory over the Golden State Warriors, Suns guard Jalen Green revealed that Warriors superstar Stephen Curry had offered him some advice. Curry, who has mentored Green in the past, told the young guard to "go handle business in OKC" as the Suns prepare for their upcoming playoff matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Why it matters

The relationship between Green and Curry has evolved from mentor-mentee to fierce on-court rivals, but the two still share a mutual respect. Curry's advice to Green shows his willingness to impart wisdom to the next generation of NBA stars, even those he competes against. Green's 36-point performance against the Warriors also demonstrates his continued growth as a player and validates Curry's belief in him.

The details

Green, who is 23 years old, shared that he has known Curry since he was around 16 years old, when Curry would invite him to work out in Oakland. Over the years, Curry has served as a mentor to Green, with the two maintaining a relationship and Curry offering guidance. After their recent matchup, the two embraced and Curry offered his advice to Green about handling business against the Thunder in the upcoming playoffs.

  • The Suns defeated the Warriors 111-96 on April 18, 2026.
  • Green scored 36 points in the win, following a 35-point performance in the Suns' previous Play-In game against the Portland Trail Blazers.

The players

Jalen Green

A 23-year-old guard for the Phoenix Suns who has emerged as a rising star in the NBA. Green has a close relationship with Warriors superstar Stephen Curry, who has mentored him over the years.

Stephen Curry

One of the greatest shooters and players in NBA history, currently with the Golden State Warriors. Curry has taken Green under his wing and provided guidance to the young Suns guard over the past several years.

Phoenix Suns

An NBA team based in Phoenix, Arizona that is currently preparing for the playoffs after a strong regular season.

Golden State Warriors

An NBA team based in the San Francisco Bay Area that has been a dominant force in the league in recent years, led by stars like Stephen Curry.

Oklahoma City Thunder

An NBA team based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma that the Phoenix Suns will face in the upcoming playoffs, as referenced in Curry's advice to Green.

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What they’re saying

“He's just telling me, 'go handle business in OKC.'.. He's kind of been somewhat of a mentor. I was able to get his number, reach out through these years. He's been kind of something like a mentor. Playing against him is always great. One of the greatest shooters, greatest players of all time.”

— Jalen Green, Phoenix Suns Guard

What’s next

The Phoenix Suns will face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the upcoming NBA playoffs, where Jalen Green will look to follow the advice imparted by his mentor, Stephen Curry.

The takeaway

The relationship between rising star Jalen Green and NBA legend Stephen Curry demonstrates the generosity of spirit and willingness to mentor the next generation that defines the greatest players in the league. Green's continued growth and success, bolstered by Curry's guidance, represents the passing of the torch to a new era of NBA talent.