The end of a historic era could be upon the Golden State Warriors after their play-in elimination by the Phoenix Suns.
Shortly before the Golden State Warriors were eliminated by the Phoenix Suns in the play-in tournament, there was a shot on the broadcast of longtime Warriors head coach Steve Kerr embracing his longtime stars, Steph Curry and Draymond Green. As the trio hugged on the court in the closing moments of the 111-96 defeat, it was clear that the loss may not have just marked the end of Golden State’s 2025-26 NBA campaign, but also the end of a historic era in the Bay Area. Kerr told them, "I don't know what's going to happen next, but I love you guys to death. Thank you."
Kerr was notably candid in his postgame remarks, acknowledging that his time could be coming to an end atop the franchise he’s led to multiple NBA championships. His contract is expiring, and Kerr didn’t elect to push for an extension ahead of the season, meaning his 12th season could have been the last. He was self-aware in admitting that these types of jobs, “all have an expiration date.” Kerr plans to take a week or two, but if he walks away, he wouldn’t walk away from Curry and go coach elsewhere in the league.
Curry has one year left and $62 million remaining on his deal, but he still expects to play much longer and plans to have extension talks with the team. He has publicly expressed he’d like it to be back with Kerr. Green has been the subject of some trade rumors, and he doesn’t plan to retire, and would also like to stay in the Bay. He has a $27.6 million player option for next season. It’s less clear who will be coaching them, and whether their decisions hinge on his.
Here is the full story from Warriors Roundtable writer Kyle Ngo on the heartbreaking loss that spelled the end of the season and possibly an era.
Under Kerr, they've won four titles: 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022. It’s been one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history. But this season was derailed by injuries to Jimmy Butler, who tore his ACL in January, and Curry, whose knee issues caused a 27-game absence. In their second straight loss in the play-in, Golden State finds themselves at a bit of a crossroads – one that will be shaped by the decision of Kerr at the top.