Following the Golden State Warriors' play-in loss to the Phoenix Suns, head coach Steve Kerr expressed uncertainty about his future with the team. The Warriors' season came to an end on Friday night, and Kerr, a four-time NBA champion coach, hinted that he may be considering stepping down from his role. The team's playoff hopes were dashed with a 111-96 loss, which allowed the Suns to claim the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Stephen Curry, who finished with 17 points, and Draymond Green, both expressed their desire for Kerr to return, but the coach's future remains uncertain due to speculation fueled by his current contract expiring.
Kerr shared an emotional moment with Curry and Green after the game, but declined to reveal what was said. The coach will meet with Warriors owner Joe Lacob and general manager Mike Dunleavy to discuss the team's plan for the offseason and determine his next steps. Kerr, who has been with the Warriors for 12 seasons, led the team to the NBA Finals in each of his first five seasons and guided USA Basketball to Olympic gold in 2024. The 60-year-old coach acknowledged that all coaching jobs have an expiration date and that sometimes it's time for new blood and ideas.
Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic secured the 8 seed in the playoffs with a 121-90 win over the Charlotte Hornets, led by Paolo Banchero's 25 points. The 2026 NBA playoffs will begin on Sky Sports this Sunday, with four live games scheduled.