The 2026 NBA Play-In Tournament concluded Friday night with the Orlando Magic and Phoenix Suns securing the final two playoff spots in their respective conferences. The tournament format, introduced in 2021, continues to generate excitement and controversy.

In the Eastern Conference, the Orlando Magic defeated the Chicago Bulls to claim the eighth seed, setting up a first-round matchup against the top-seeded Boston Celtics. The Magic’s young core, led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, showed poise under pressure.

Out West, the Phoenix Suns survived a thriller against the Golden State Warriors to advance. Kevin Durant and Devin Booker combined for 68 points in a performance that reminded fans why the Suns were considered title contenders at the season’s start.

“The Play-In gives teams that fought all season one more chance,” said Suns coach Mike Budenholzer. “Every game matters, and that’s good for basketball.”

Critics argue the format punishes higher-seeded teams by forcing them into single-elimination games, but the NBA reports that Play-In viewership has increased 35% since its inception. The full playoffs begin Sunday.