Julian Champagnie: The Undrafted Gem Shining for the San Antonio Spurs

Julian Champagnie, the 23-year-old small forward for the San Antonio Spurs, has been making significant waves in the NBA despite being undrafted. After a stellar college career at St. John’s, where he averaged 19.5 points per game in the competitive Big East conference, Champagnie was signed by the Philadelphia 76ers in July 2022. However, his stint with the 76ers was short-lived, as he was waived after playing only seven minutes over two games.

Champagnie’s fortunes changed when the San Antonio Spurs claimed him in 2023. Recognizing his potential, the Spurs rewarded him with a long-term contract worth $12 million over four years. This investment has proven fruitful, as Champagnie has become an integral part of the Spurs’ lineup. He is currently averaging 11.0 points per game, shooting at an impressive 38.9% from beyond the arc, and has made 12 of his last 24 three-point attempts.

This season, Champagnie has started every game for the Spurs, showcasing his versatility by playing both guard and forward positions and guarding any perimeter spot defensively. He is averaging 5.2 rebounds and nearly one steal per game, highlighting his all-around skills. His performance has drawn comparisons to fellow New Yorker Danny Green, who also found success with the Spurs after being cut by another team.

Champagnie’s impact has been particularly felt during the absence of Devin Vassell, who has been recovering from offseason surgery. Champagnie filled in the starting lineup and contributed significantly to the team’s victories, including a well-balanced win against the Portland Trail Blazers where he scored 14 points, grabbed six rebounds, and dished out two assists.

The Spurs’ ability to develop players once considered unplayable by other teams is well-documented, and Champagnie is the latest example of this success. His dedication and improvement have made him a crucial player for the Spurs, and his future looks promising as he continues to grow with the team.