Warriors and 76ers Advance in NBA Play-In Tournament

Stephen Curry and Al Horford lead their teams to victories, setting up high-stakes matchups.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 7:45am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the action and energy of a basketball game, with the colors of the Warriors and 76ers' uniforms creating a vibrant, dynamic composition.The Warriors and 76ers' thrilling victories in the NBA Play-In Tournament set the stage for high-stakes matchups in the next round of the playoffs.Philadelphia Today

The Golden State Warriors and Philadelphia 76ers emerged victorious in the second day of the NBA Play-In Tournament, avoiding elimination and advancing to face tougher opponents. Stephen Curry and Al Horford were instrumental in leading their teams to these crucial wins, showcasing their veteran leadership and clutch performances.

Why it matters

The Play-In Tournament has become an exciting new addition to the NBA postseason, providing lower-seeded teams a chance to earn a spot in the playoffs. The Warriors and 76ers' victories keep their championship aspirations alive, while setting up highly anticipated matchups against top-tier teams in the next round.

The details

The Warriors defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 108-103, with Stephen Curry scoring 33 points and hitting several key shots down the stretch to secure the win. In Philadelphia, the 76ers beat the Toronto Raptors 99-92, led by Al Horford's 21 points and 10 rebounds.

  • The Play-In Tournament games were played on April 15, 2026.
  • The Warriors will face the Phoenix Suns on April 17, 2026 for a chance to make the playoffs.

The players

Stephen Curry

A 4-time NBA champion and 2-time MVP, Curry is one of the greatest players of his generation and a key member of the Golden State Warriors.

Al Horford

A veteran center and 5-time NBA All-Star, Horford has been a crucial part of the Philadelphia 76ers' success this season.

Golden State Warriors

A professional basketball team based in San Francisco, California, the Warriors are one of the most successful franchises in the NBA, having won 4 championships in the last 8 years.

Philadelphia 76ers

A professional basketball team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the 76ers are one of the oldest and most storied franchises in the NBA.

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What they’re saying

“This is an opportunity we might not ever get again. We have to take advantage of it.”

— Al Horford, Center, Philadelphia 76ers

What’s next

The Warriors will face the top-seeded Phoenix Suns on April 17, 2026, with the winner advancing to the first round of the NBA playoffs. The 76ers will face the Miami Heat in the first round of the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Warriors and 76ers' victories in the Play-In Tournament showcase the value of veteran leadership and clutch performances, as Curry and Horford led their teams to crucial wins. These results set up highly anticipated matchups in the next round of the playoffs, where the Warriors and 76ers will look to continue their championship aspirations.