Warriors' Emotional Season Ends with Play-In Loss to Suns

Longtime core trio of Curry, Green, and Kerr share embrace after elimination from playoffs

Apr. 19, 2026 at 1:38am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting the silhouettes of three figures embracing, conveying the emotional weight of the Warriors' season-ending loss and the uncertain future for the team's core players.The Warriors' longtime core trio share a poignant embrace after their season ends in heartbreak, symbolizing the uncertainty that lies ahead for the franchise.Phoenix Today

The Golden State Warriors' season came to an end with a 118-112 loss to the Phoenix Suns in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Following the defeat, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, star players Stephen Curry and Draymond Green shared an emotional embrace on the court, reflecting on their nearly decade-long run of success that included four championships.

Why it matters

The loss carried added significance due to the uncertain contract status of Curry and Green, who are both entering the final years of their deals with the franchise. The Warriors face difficult decisions about the future of their core as they look to retool and remain competitive.

The details

With the Warriors eliminated from playoff contention, Curry, who finished with 28 points, six rebounds, and five assists, walked over to Kerr and Green near the baseline after the final buzzer. The three longtime teammates embraced for several seconds, with Curry appearing visibly moved as he buried his face in Kerr's shoulder. Green, who contributed 12 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, held tightly to both men before pulling away to acknowledge the Phoenix crowd.

  • The Warriors' season-ending loss to the Suns took place on April 16, 2026.
  • Curry and Green are both entering the final years of their contracts with the Warriors in the 2026-27 season.

The players

Steve Kerr

The Golden State Warriors' head coach, in his 10th season leading the team.

Stephen Curry

The Warriors' star player, a 38-year-old with two years remaining on his supermax contract.

Draymond Green

The Warriors' veteran forward, a 35-year-old entering the final year of his contract.

Devin Booker

The Phoenix Suns' star player, who scored 34 points in the team's Play-In victory over the Warriors.

Kevin Durant

The Phoenix Suns' veteran forward, who scored 26 points in the team's Play-In win.

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What they’re saying

“We've been through so much together. That hug wasn't just about tonight. It was about everything we've accomplished and everything that comes next.”

— Steve Kerr, Warriors Head Coach

What’s next

The Warriors' offseason will be dominated by questions about the futures of Curry and Green, as the franchise looks to retool and remain competitive in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

The emotional embrace between Kerr, Curry, and Green at the end of the Warriors' season-ending loss symbolized the end of an era for one of the NBA's most successful franchises over the past decade. As Curry and Green face uncertain contract situations, the Warriors must navigate a critical offseason that will shape the team's direction moving forward.