Key Takeaways
- Jordan Goodwin delivered a standout performance in the Suns’ 111‑96 Play‑In win over the Warriors, scoring 19 points, grabbing nine rebounds, and recording six steals.
- His late‑game surge— a steal‑and‑dunk followed by a fourth three‑pointer— sealed the victory and shifted momentum decisively in Phoenix’s favor.
- Goodwin’s defensive effort on Stephen Curry (holding him to 4‑of‑16 shooting, 3‑of‑10 from three) was a critical factor in limiting the Warriors’ offensive output.
- The win keeps the Suns’ season alive, advancing them to a first‑round playoff matchup against the top‑seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.
- Teammates and coach praised Goodwin’s work ethic, resilience, and “juice,” noting that his effort could earn him a more secure contract and serve as inspiration for undrafted players.
- Goodwin’s journey—four teams in five years, multiple waiver claims, and Exhibit‑10/two‑way contracts—highlights the perseverance required to earn a lasting NBA role.
On Friday, April 14, 2026, the Phoenix Suns secured a crucial 111‑96 victory over the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Play‑In Tournament, preserving their postseason hopes and setting up a first‑round series against the No. 1‑seed Oklahoma City Thunder. The game’s turning point came in the final two minutes when Suns guard Jordan Goodwin stole a pass from Draymond Green, raced the length of the court, and finished with a powerful dunk to put Phoenix ahead 107‑91 with 1:44 remaining. Just twenty seconds later, Goodwin knocked down his fourth three‑pointer of the night, extending the lead to 110‑94 and prompting many Warriors fans to head for the exits.
Goodwin finished the contest with a well‑rounded stat line: 19 points on 7‑of‑11 shooting (including 4‑of‑11 from beyond the arc), a team‑high nine rebounds, and six steals. His early impact was evident as he recorded three steals within the first four minutes, setting a defensive tone that persisted throughout the game. Coach Jordan Ott highlighted Goodwin’s “juice,” noting that his shot‑making, four offensive rebounds, and relentless pressure on the Warriors’ star guard Stephen Curry were instrumental in the win. Curry was held to a modest 17 points on 4‑of‑16 shooting, including just 3‑of‑10 from three—a testament to Goodwin’s perimeter defense.
The victory was especially meaningful for Goodwin, who has endured a nomadic NBA career. After being acquired from the Washington Wizards alongside Bradley Beal in June 2023, he played 40 games for the Suns in 2023‑24 before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets, where he was waived. The Memphis Grizzlies gave him a 10‑day contract that turned into a two‑way deal, followed by a stint with the Los Angeles Lakers on an Exhibit‑10 and then a two‑way contract. After being waived by the Lakers on July 20, 2025, Goodwin was claimed by the Suns on July 23. His perseverance paid off in Phoenix, where he has become a vital contributor despite lacking a guaranteed contract beyond the current season.
Teammates lauded Goodwin’s effort and character. Devin Booker called the performance “really big,” suggesting that Goodwin’s play could earn him a lucrative summer contract and serve as motivation for other undrafted players. Booker added, “He’s going to let all the other hoopers that don’t get drafted, or are in the same situation, give them hope.” Jalen Green, who erupted for 36 points, described Goodwin as a “killer” and a “game changer,” praising his ability to guard the league’s best players, hit timely shots, and generate steals. Coach Ott, exiting the post‑game podium, exclaimed, “Goodie!” while giving Goodwin a congratulatory dap, underscoring the coach’s appreciation for the guard’s energy and impact.
Goodwin’s night also placed him in elite company: he became the first Suns guard since Jason Kidd in 2000 to record at least six steals and four offensive rebounds in a single game. This all‑around effort—not only scoring but also rebounding, defending, and creating turnovers—exemplified the type of “juice” Ott has repeatedly referenced this season. The Suns’ ability to avoid becoming the first No. 7 seed to miss the playoffs in the play‑in era hinged on performances like Goodwin’s, which transformed a recent loss to the Portland Trail Blazers into a rallying point for the team.
Looking ahead, the Suns will face a formidable challenge in the Oklahoma City Thunder, but Goodwin’s Play‑In heroics have injected confidence and momentum into Phoenix’s locker room. His story—marked by relentless work, repeated setbacks, and a finally earned opportunity—serves as a reminder that perseverance can turn a journeyman’s contract into a playoff‑changing contribution. As the Suns prepare for the next round, Goodwin’s locked‑in focus, defensive tenacity, and clutch shooting will be key assets in their quest to advance deeper into the postseason.