Spurs once again turning castaway into strong impact NBA player

Julian Champagnie has been quite the find for the Spurs since his debut in Silver and Black in 2022-23. After playing college ball at St. John’s, Champagnie was undrafted but signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in July of 2022. After playing only seven minutes over two contests, the 76ers deemed Champagnie unworthy enough to waive him.

After averaging 19.5 points per game while playing in the grinder the Big East conference is, the Spurs noticed the potential Champagnie had and claimed Julian in 2023 when Philly let him go.

After playing well in limited action for San Antonio—as well as the potential they saw in him—Champagnie was rewarded with a long-term contract, earning $12 million over four years to remain in San Antonio.

A wing from New York endears himself to Spurs fans—a familiar story

Champagnie has done nothing but back up that investment the Spurs made in him of late. He’s shooting at an excellent 38.9% clip from beyond the arc this season. He’s made 12 of his last 24 threes, and his path should remind fans of fellow New Yorker Danny Green, who went through something similar, getting cut from Cleveland before finding a home in San Antonio.

In a well-balanced victory against Portland, Champagnie tied for second on the team with his 14 points. He garnered those on 4 of 8 from 3-point land, added six rebounds, and dished out two assists.

Although the season is still young, Julian is showing his value to this team. The lengthy wing can play either guard or forward and can guard any perimeter position on the defensive end. He’s averaging over five rebounds a night (5.2) and nearly one theft per game (0.8) so far this season.

He’s firmly entrenched in the starting lineup, having started every game this season. He’s made clear improvements over last season, too, in offensive metrics like shooting percentage. He’s done this while attempting more threes than last year, so his offensive responsibilities haven’t gotten easier.

Defensively, he’s averaging over two rebounds more per game than last season. Champagnie is getting comfortable with his role in a silver and black uniform.

The Spurs have an uncanny ability to build players once thought to be unplayable by other teams. They’ve done it time and time again. Their latest DIY project is showing rave results thus far, and the return on investment they’re receiving once again makes them look like geniuses.

This, however, wouldn’t be possible without the effort and desire to improve Champagnie has shown Spurs nation. Once disregarded by a contender, Champagnie has made himself an important player to a budding Spurs squad, and like the team, he hasn’t hit his highest potential yet.