Green scores 36 points, Suns lock down Warriors, Curry in 111-96 win in NBA’s play-in tourney

Jalen Green scored 36 points, leading the Phoenix Suns to a 111-96 victory over the Golden State Warriors in the NBA’s play-in tournament. Devin Booker added 20 points, helping the Suns secure the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. They will face the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, in the first round. The Warriors’ season ended with this loss. Green was impressive, shooting 14 of 20 from the field and making 8 of 14 three-pointers. Jordan Goodwin contributed 19 points and was strong defensively with six steals. Stephen Curry struggled, scoring 17 points on 4-of-16 shooting. Despite a late push by the Warriors, the Suns maintained their lead and avoided losing both play-in games at home. The game was intense, with Booker and Draymond Green both ejected after receiving technical fouls. QUESTION: How might the Suns’ victory over the Warriors impact their confidence going into the playoffs against the Thunder?