Warriors' season ends with loss to Suns in play-in, Green ejection

Golden State's playoff hopes dashed after defeat and controversial ejection in elimination game.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:59am

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A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in the Warriors' blue and gold colors, as well as the Suns' purple and orange, conceptually representing the intensity and drama of their elimination game.The Warriors' season ends in frustration as a controversial ejection proves pivotal in their play-in tournament loss to the Suns.Phoenix Today

The Golden State Warriors' 2025-26 season came to a disappointing end on Friday night, as they fell to the Phoenix Suns 108-103 in the NBA play-in tournament. The game was marked by a controversial ejection of Warriors star Draymond Green in the fourth quarter, which proved to be a pivotal moment in the loss.

Why it matters

The Warriors' early playoff exit is a tough blow for the franchise, which had hoped to make another deep postseason run after winning the NBA championship just two seasons ago. Green's ejection also raises questions about the officiating and discipline standards in the league's play-in format.

The details

With the game tied at 95-95 in the fourth quarter, Green was assessed a technical foul and ejected after arguing a call with the officials. The Warriors were unable to overcome Green's absence down the stretch, as the Suns pulled away for the victory. Golden State led by as many as 13 points in the first half before the Suns mounted their comeback.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 18, 2026.
  • Green was ejected in the fourth quarter of the elimination game.

The players

Draymond Green

A veteran forward and key defensive player for the Golden State Warriors.

Phoenix Suns

The NBA team that defeated the Warriors in the play-in tournament game.

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What they’re saying

“We fought hard, but the ejection was a tough blow. The refs have to do a better job of keeping control of these high-stakes games.”

— Steve Kerr, Head Coach, Golden State Warriors

What’s next

The Warriors' offseason will now begin as they look to regroup and come back stronger next season.

The takeaway

This loss is a disappointing end to the Warriors' season, but they will need to learn from this experience and focus on building a roster that can withstand the intensity of the NBA's play-in tournament going forward.