NBA play-in tournament: Live updates from Friday’s matchupsESPN staffApr 17, 2026, 10:49 PM ETMultiple Authors
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It’s win or go home for four teams Friday as the NBA play-in tournament concludes.
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In the Eastern Conference, the Orlando Magic easily downed the Charlotte Hornets 121-90, to advance and face the top-seeded Detroit Pistons in the first round.
In the Western Conference, the Golden State Warriors travel to play the Phoenix Suns for the No. 8 seed. The Portland Trail Blazers defeated Phoenix on Tuesday, and the next night, Golden State stormed back to beat the LA Clippers. The winner of the matchup moves on to the first round to go against the top-seeded and defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Warriors defeated the Suns three out of four times in the regular season. But their most recent matchup was Feb. 5 and didn’t include Golden State star Stephen Curry or Phoenix stars Devin Booker and Jalen Green. Curry is coming off a 35-point performance, including 27 in the second half, against the Clippers.
Who will keep their season alive Friday? Follow along for all the top moments.
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