The Golden State Warriors are officially playoff-bound — or at least Play-In-bound — after clinching the No. 10 seed in the Western Conference. As they prepare for their high-stakes matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers, the franchise has made a decisive and telling move on its roster, opting for experience and proven production in the frontcourt over promising but unproven depth.
In a quiet but significant call on the final day of the 2025-26 regular season, the Warriors chose not to make any roster adjustments. That decision effectively locked in Charles Bassey on the 15-man playoff roster, while leaving out rookie LJ Cryer, along with Nate Williams and Malevy Leons — all of whom were on two-way contracts and thus ineligible for the postseason unless converted.
The move sends a clear message: when it comes to the Play-In Tournament and any potential deeper run, head coach Steve Kerr wants reliability and immediate impact, especially at the center position.
Bassey Earns His Spot with Strong Late-Season Impression
Charles Bassey, signed to a standard contract on April 5, delivered exactly what the injury-riddled Warriors needed. In just five games with Golden State, the 25-year-old big man averaged 10.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game. His standout performance came in the regular-season finale against the Clippers, where he dropped 16 points on 5-of-6 shooting in only 19 minutes off the bench.
At 6’10” with a 7’3” wingspan, Bassey brings mobility, rim protection, and finishing ability that fits Kerr’s system. His activity and energy have impressed the coaching staff, and many around the league believe he has earned a standard NBA contract for next season — whether with the Warriors or elsewhere.
By keeping Bassey and not converting any of the two-way deals, the Warriors signaled that his production in limited minutes outweighed the potential upside of the younger, developmental players.
Who’s In? The Warriors’ 15-Man Playoff Roster
With the final roster now set, Steve Kerr has the following 15 players available for the Play-In Tournament and beyond:
- Stephen Curry
- Brandin Podziemski
- Gary Payton II
- Seth Curry
- Jimmy Butler
- Moses Moody
- De’Anthony Melton
- Will Richard
- Gui Santos
- Quinten Post
- Draymond Green
- Kristaps Porzingis
- Al Horford
- Charles Bassey
(Note: Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody are currently out for the season with injuries, so the active rotation will lean heavily on the remaining healthy bodies.)
Injury Updates Offer Hope for a Healthier Warriors Squad
Injuries have defined Golden State’s 2025-26 season, often preventing the team from fielding anything close to a full-strength lineup. The good news heading into the Play-In? Several key contributors could return or be available soon.
- Draymond Green missed the regular-season finale with a minor back issue, but it was widely viewed as rest management. He is expected to suit up against the Clippers.
- Quinten Post, who has missed the last seven games, is set for re-evaluation this week and could provide valuable spacing and size off the bench.
- Al Horford and others received positive updates in recent days.
Unfortunately, LJ Cryer — already dealing with a knee injury — will not be part of the postseason picture after the roster decision.
If Green and Post can return to full strength, the Warriors suddenly gain much-needed depth and versatility in the frontcourt, which could make them a dangerous opponent even as the No. 10 seed.
What’s Next: Warriors vs. Clippers in the NBA Play-In Tournament
The Warriors will face the No. 9 seed Los Angeles Clippers in the Western Conference 9/10 Play-In game on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, with tip-off scheduled for 7:00 p.m. PT at Intuit Dome. The game will be broadcast exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.
A win advances Golden State to face the loser of the 7/8 matchup for the final playoff spot. A loss ends their season immediately.
With Stephen Curry leading the charge and a bolstered frontcourt featuring Bassey, Green, Porzingis, and Horford, the Warriors enter the Play-In with momentum and a clear roster direction. They may be the 10th seed, but in a single-elimination environment, experience and star power can quickly change the narrative.
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The decision to go with Charles Bassey over the two-way trio may have been the final piece in giving Steve Kerr the best possible chance to extend Golden State’s season. Now, it’s time to see if that bet pays off on the biggest stage of the year.