The Golden State Warriors’ season came to a definitive close on Friday night, as the Phoenix Suns defeated them 111-96 at the Mortgage Matchup Center in a play-in elimination game. Jalen Green erupted for 36 points to lead the Suns, while the Warriors, hampered by fatigue and inefficiency, could not muster enough offense to extend their postseason hopes.
Stephen Curry finished with 17 points on a tough 4-of-16 shooting night, the tank clearly empty just two days after his heroic 35-point effort powered a stunning comeback victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. The loss marked the end of one of the more turbulent and injury-plagued seasons in recent franchise history. In the closing seconds, head coach Steve Kerr subbed Curry and Draymond Green out and shared an emotional embrace with both, telling them, “I don’t know what’s going to happen next, but I love you guys to death. Thank you.” The moment left the arena in a heavy silence, underscoring the weight of a dynasty’s uncertain next chapter.
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Curry on His Future and His Knee
Postgame, Curry addressed questions about his ailing right knee with his trademark humor: “They say a lot of golf helps my knee.” When the discussion turned to how many years he envisions remaining in his NBA career, he was straightforward and optimistic.
“Multiple, for sure,” Curry said. “That’s more than one?”
On the possibility of a contract extension with the Warriors, Curry left no doubt about his intentions: “For sure.” He noted, however, that no conversations have taken place yet, adding that “it’ll be a busy summer for the Warriors.”
Curry, now 38, has one season and $62.6 million remaining on his current deal. He continues to perform as one of the league’s elite players, and his clear desire to remain in Golden State sets the tone for the offseason. Extension talks are expected, with the primary questions centering on length and structure.
Warriors’ Steve Kerr and His Uncertain Future
Steve Kerr, whose contract has now expired after 12 seasons at the helm—including four NBA championships—spoke candidly about his future.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen,” Kerr said. “I still love coaching, but I get it. These jobs all have an expiration date. There’s a run that happens. When the run ends, sometimes it’s time for new blood and new ideas.”
Kerr outlined a measured approach, planning to take one or two weeks before sitting down with Warriors ownership (Joe Lacob) and general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. for a collaborative conversation about the franchise’s direction.
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He ruled out one possibility outright: “I’m definitely not going and coaching somewhere else next year in the NBA. I would never walk away from Steph. But all the stuff has to be aligned and right.”
Whether Kerr returns or steps aside, his legacy in Golden State—built on championship culture, innovative basketball, and deep player relationships—is already secure.
What Draymond Said About His Future
Draymond Green, wrapping up his 14th NBA season, was equally direct when asked about retirement. With a $27.6 million player option for next season, Green made his intentions clear.
“I’m not retiring,” he stated. “Hopefully I’ve done enough to still be here.”
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Despite being part of trade discussions earlier in the season, Green reiterated his strong desire to remain a Warrior. Loyalty, unfinished business, and his belief that he can still contribute at a high level all point toward him exercising that option or working toward a new deal to stay in the Bay Area.
Final Word for the Warriors
Friday’s loss closed the book on a season defined by resilience amid injuries, inconsistency, and one unforgettable comeback night in Inglewood. The dynasty’s future now hinges on critical decisions over the coming weeks and months.
Curry has signaled he is far from done, expressing clear interest in multiple more years and a long-term commitment to the Warriors. Green wants to stay and continue competing. Kerr remains grateful for the journey but uncertain about the next step, emphasizing that any decision must feel right for everyone involved.
The Warriors face a busy and pivotal offseason. Roster construction, potential extensions, and questions of continuity will dominate the headlines. Yet one thing stands out clearly from the final night of the 2025-26 campaign: Stephen Curry is not ready to walk away. As long as he remains the heartbeat of the franchise, the Warriors’ story is far from over.