The Golden State Warriors season is over. Jalen Green scored 36 points to lead the Phoenix Suns to a 111-96 win at Mortgage Matchup Center on Friday night, eliminating Golden State from the play-in tournament and ending what has been one of the more turbulent seasons in recent franchise history.
Stephen Curry finished with 17 points on 4-of-16 shooting, the tank visibly empty two nights after pouring everything into a 35-point performance that powered Wednesday’s stunning comeback win over the Clippers. Steve Kerr coached his final game of the season with his contract now expired. The closing seconds brought an emotional moment that left the building quiet.
What comes next for this franchise is the question that will define the entire offseason.
Curry on His Future and His Knee
GettyStephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors.
Curry addressed his ailing right knee with characteristic humor when asked about it postgame.
“They say a lot of golf helps my knee,” Curry said.
He was more direct when the conversation turned to how many years he sees remaining in his career.
“Multiple, for sure,” Curry said. “That’s more than one?”
On the subject of a contract extension with the Warriors, Curry did not hesitate.
“For sure,” he said. “But none of those conversations have happened, so it’ll be a busy summer for the Warriors.”
Here is Curry on his knee issue and how much more time remains in his career.
“Multiple (years) for sure. That’s more than one?”
Curry has one season and $62.6 million remaining on his current deal. At 38 years old, he remains one of the best players in the league, and his desire to stay in Golden State is clear. The extension conversations will happen. The timeline is the only question.
Near the end of Friday’s loss, Kerr subbed Curry and Draymond Green out of the game and embraced them both in a moment that carried the weight of everything this group has been through together. He told them both: “I don’t know what’s going to happen next, but I love you guys to death. Thank you.”
What Steve Kerr said to Steph and Draymond in the huddle 🥹
(Via @NBA)
Warriors’ Steve Kerr and His Uncertain Future
GettySteve Kerr, Golden State Warriors.
Kerr was direct when asked about whether he would return as head coach next season.
“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.”
He outlined his plan for the coming weeks, indicating a collaborative decision with ownership would follow.
“My plan is to take a little time,” Kerr said. “Take a week or two and eventually sit down and talk with Joe and Mike. We’ve always had a great partnership. We’ll talk about what’s next for the Warriors and come to a collaborative decision.”
Kerr did rule out one scenario entirely. He will not coach another NBA team.
“I’m definitely not going and coaching somewhere else next year in the NBA,” Kerr said. “I would never walk away from Steph. But all the stuff has to be aligned and right.”
Twelve seasons. Four championships. A legacy that does not need another game to be complete. Whether Kerr returns or not, what he built in Golden State will not be forgotten.
He acknowledged there is an “expiration date” on the job and it’s possible new blood is needed. Said he may return or may not. Doesn’t know yet.
Full sound
What Draymond Said About His Future
GettyDraymond Green of the Golden State Warriors.
Draymond Green, finishing his 14th NBA season, was clear when asked about retirement. He has a $27.6 million player option for next season and wants to stay.
“Hopefully I’ve done enough to still be here,” Green said.
Despite being involved in trade deadline conversations earlier this season, Green reiterated his desire to remain a Warrior. The option, the loyalty, and the unfinished business all point in the same direction.
“Hopefully I’ve done enough to still be here.”
Full Draymond soundbite on his future
Final Word for the Warriors
Friday night closed the book on a season defined by injuries, resilience, and one unforgettable night in Inglewood. The dynasty’s future now depends on decisions that will be made over the coming weeks.
Curry wants more years. Green wants to stay. Kerr is uncertain but grateful.
The Warriors have a busy summer ahead. Whatever shape this roster takes next season, Curry made one thing clear. He is not done yet.
Warriors’ Steph Curry Drops Major Future Update After Season Ends