Julian Champagnie's subtle improvements completely flipped script on his future

Entering the 2025-26 season, Julian Champagnie was a player on the ropes. Approaching the last guaranteed year of his contract, Jules had to prove to the San Antonio front office that he was a guy worth keeping around. Now, at the end of the year, he has become somebody that the Spurs can't afford to lose because of his increased shooting efficiency, hustle, and defense.

Without a doubt, the Spurs will be handing Julian a long-term contract in the offseason after they pick up his team option. This season, Champagnie has become a foundational part of the Silver and Black rotation and a key contributor to their massively successful season. The microwave scorer has earned the team multiple wins on his own and has stayed a steady force all year long.

Julian Champagnie enjoyed career-high numbers across the board

Over the past few seasons, Champagnie has seen his playing time fluctuate. When he wasn't making his shots, he would quickly be taken off the floor. That had changed this season.

While the fourth-year man started the year playing his usual end-of-rotation minutes, he gradually worked his way up. Towards the end of the campaign, Julian was a starter, and he stayed on the floor for reasons far beyond his shooting.

The sniper earned his way into starter minutes by putting up increased numbers from top to bottom. His 11.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game were all career-high marks. Champagnie also shot 38.1% on three-pointers on a career-high 6.2 attempts per game. With the added playing time, Julian did not miss a beat.

Julian Champagnie's consistency made him an integral part of the rotation

Along with Keldon Johnson, Julian Champagnie played in every single game of the 2025-26 season. This is both impressive and incredibly helpful to head coach Mitch Johnson. The rising role player made the most of every opportunity to impact the game.

Champagnie transformed himself into the perfect role player. He upgraded his jump shot to be efficient at high volume, revamped his motor to grab extra rebounds and create hustle plays, and worked incredibly well within the flow of the offense. When he is hot, he takes the initiative; when he isn't, he passes the rock to those who are.

Every second that Julian was on the floor, he was effective. Even when he wasn't splashing threes, he was making an impact on defense and creating space for those around him. His improvements as a defender also made a long-lasting impact. His ability to guard both wings and guards made him exponentially more valuable.

While his stats don't jump off the page, when you watch him, you will not forget his name. The Spurs wouldn't be where they currently are without him. Luckily, he won't be going anywhere.

Grade: A

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