Julian Champagnie doesn’t make headlines with flashy dunks or viral trash talk. He doesn’t dominate sports talk shows or trend on Twitter after every game. But if you’ve been watching the NBA closely this season—especially the San Antonio Spurs—you’ve seen something special unfold. Quietly, steadily, and with relentless work ethic, Champagnie has carved out a role that’s no longer just about filling minutes. He’s becoming a cornerstone.
At 6’7″, Julian Champagnie brings size, shooting, and defensive versatility to a Spurs team rebuilding around young talent. His journey from overlooked college prospect to NBA rotation player is one of persistence, family support, and late-blooming confidence. And honestly? We’re just getting started.
Key Takeaways
- Julian Champagnie’s 2025–2026 stats: Averaging 12.3 PPG, 5.1 RPG, and shooting 38.7% from three—career highs across the board.
- Brotherly duo: Plays alongside older brother Justin Champagnie, who signed with the Toronto Raptors in 2025—making them one of the few sibling pairs in the league.
- College roots: Played four seasons at St. John’s University, improving each year before going undrafted in 2022.
- Contract status: Signed a two-year, $8.5 million deal with the Spurs in 2024—now seen as a steal given his production.
- Height & role: At 6’7″ with a 7’0″ wingspan, he guards multiple positions and spaces the floor for Victor Wembanyama.
- Off-court presence: Known for低调 lifestyle—recently spotted shopping in San Antonio for local groceries, not designer brands.
From Queens to Queens: The College Years
Julian Champagnie didn’t arrive at St. John’s as a blue-chip recruit. He was a three-star prospect from Brooklyn, overlooked by most major programs. But he chose the Red Storm—and it changed everything.
His freshman year (2018–2019) was modest: 4.2 points per game, limited minutes. But you could see the foundation—long limbs, active hands, a smooth jumper. By his sophomore season, he doubled his scoring. Junior year? He averaged 15.8 points and 6.6 rebounds, earning All-Big East Honorable Mention.
Then came his senior year (2021–2022). That’s when he broke out: 19.2 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 41% from three. He led St. John’s in scoring and became the first player in program history to record 1,500+ points, 600+ rebounds, and 100+ three-pointers.
Yet, despite that production, he went undrafted in 2022. Why? Scouts questioned his athleticism and defensive mobility. But the Spurs saw something else: basketball IQ, toughness, and a shooter’s touch that translated even against length.
The NBA Grind: Two-Ways, G League, and Breakthrough
After going undrafted, Julian signed a two-way contract with the Spurs in 2022. That meant shuttling between San Antonio and the Austin Spurs (G League). Most players on two-ways fade into obscurity. Not Julian.
He used the G League to refine his game. In the 2022–2023 season, he averaged 18.4 points and 6.8 rebounds for Austin, shooting 39% from deep. Coaches praised his off-ball movement and willingness to defend bigger wings.
By December 2023, injuries opened up minutes in San Antonio. Julian stepped in—and didn’t look back. His first start came against the Timberwolves in January 2024. He dropped 17 points, grabbed 8 boards, and held his own against Karl-Anthony Towns. That game? A turning point.
Fast forward to the 2025–2026 season. Julian Champagnie is now a full-time starter. His julian champagnie stats speak for themselves:
- Points per game: 12.3 (up from 8.1 last season)
- Rebounds: 5.1 (career high)
- Three-point percentage: 38.7% on 4.2 attempts per game
- Defensive rating: 108.3 (top 25 among small forwards)
What’s more, he’s become a key piece in Gregg Popovich’s system. He spaces the floor for Wembanyama, cuts hard off screens, and rarely forces shots. His efficiency is remarkable: 58.2% true shooting percentage—better than veterans like Mikal Bridges and Dorian Finney-Smith.
The Brother Factor: Justin and Julian Champagnie
Here’s the deal: Julian isn’t the only Champagnie making noise in the NBA. His older brother, Justin Champagnie, played at Virginia and went undrafted in 2021. After stints with the Raptors and Thunder, Justin signed a standard contract with Toronto in 2025.
Now, both brothers are in the league—a rare feat. They train together in the offseason, often in Brooklyn or at their family home in Pennsylvania. Their mom, a former college basketball player, still texts them play-by-play critiques after every game.
“We push each other,” Julian said in a recent interview. “Justin’s tougher than me. He’ll call me out if I’m not boxing out. But we’re also best friends. It’s surreal seeing him on the other side of the court.”
Their bond extends beyond competition. They co-host a youth basketball camp in Queens every summer, focusing on fundamentals and mental resilience. For Julian, it’s about giving back—and staying grounded.
Contract Talk: Is $8.5 Million a Bargain?
When the Spurs signed Julian to a two-year, $8.5 million deal in 2024, analysts called it a low-risk move. Now? It looks like one of the best value contracts in the league.
Compare his salary to similar role players:
- Josh Hart (Knicks): $12.9M/year
- Royce O’Neale (Suns): $9.7M/year
- Dorian Finney-Smith (Mavericks): $12.4M/year
Julian does more than all three—on a fraction of the salary. His julian champagnie contract expires in 2026, and Spurs GM Brian Wright has already hinted at extension talks. If he maintains this level, he could command $15M+ annually on the open market.
But Julian isn’t chasing money. “I just want to win,” he told reporters after a win over the Lakers. “This team believes in me. That means more than anything.”
Height, Wingspan, and Defensive Impact
At first glance, Julian’s julian champagnie height—6’7″—might not seem extraordinary. But combine that with a 7’0″ wingspan, quick feet, and high basketball IQ, and you get a switchable defender who can guard 2 through 4.
In the 2025–2026 season, he’s held opponents to 41.2% shooting when targeted in isolation—better than 72% of NBA wings. He’s especially effective against pick-and-roll ball handlers, using his length to disrupt passing lanes.
Against the Timberwolves in March 2026, he spent significant time on Anthony Edwards. Result? Edwards shot 5-of-14, with three turnovers directly caused by Julian’s pressure. That game, often cited as a defensive masterpiece, showcased why Popovich trusts him in crunch time.
“He doesn’t get credit for the dirty work,” said Spurs assistant coach Brett Brown. “But he’s the guy who makes the extra pass, takes the charge, and stays in front of his man. That’s winning basketball.”
Life Off the Court: Shopping in San Antonio and Staying Humble
While some NBA stars live large, Julian keeps it simple. Recently, fans spotted him shopping in San Antonio at H-E-B, buying groceries for his apartment near the Alamodome. No entourage. No security. Just a guy in a hoodie, comparing prices on cereal.
“I like normal stuff,” he laughed in a local interview. “I’m not into cars or jewelry. My mom raised us to be humble.”
He lives with his girlfriend, a teacher at a local elementary school, and their rescue dog, Kobe. Weekends are for cooking, watching film, and visiting his younger sister at college in North Carolina.
This grounded approach resonates with Spurs fans. In a league obsessed with image, Julian’s authenticity stands out. Merch sales for his No. 8 jersey have surged—especially among teens and young adults who see him as a relatable underdog.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Julian Champagnie?
The Spurs are rebuilding, but they’re not tanking. With Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and now a reliable wing in Champagnie, they’ve got a core that could compete sooner than expected.
Analysts project the Spurs could crack the play-in by 2027. If Julian continues improving—especially as a playmaker (he’s averaging 2.4 assists this season, up from 1.1 last year)—he could evolve into a 15-point-per-game scorer with All-Defensive Team potential.
There’s also international interest. FIBA scouts have noted his versatility, and he’s eligible to play for the U.S. Virgin Islands national team (his father’s homeland). While he hasn’t committed yet, it’s a possibility post-2026.
One thing’s clear: Julian Champagnie isn’t a flash-in-the-pan story. He’s a testament to patience, preparation, and perseverance. And in an era of overnight sensations, that’s refreshing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Julian Champagnie’s current NBA stats?
As of the 2025–2026 season, Julian is averaging 12.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game while shooting 38.7% from three-point range. His defensive metrics rank among the top 25 for small forwards.
Does Julian Champagnie have a brother in the NBA?
Yes. His older brother, Justin Champagnie, plays for the Toronto Raptors. They are one of the few active sibling duos in the league and often train together in the offseason.
Where did Julian Champagnie play college basketball?
He played four seasons at St. John’s University in Queens, New York. He went undrafted in 2022 despite leading the team in scoring during his senior year.
What is Julian Champagnie’s contract with the Spurs?
He signed a two-year, $8.5 million deal in 2024. The contract expires in 2026, and extension talks are expected to begin soon given his rising value.
How tall is Julian Champagnie, and what position does he play?
He stands 6 feet 7 inches tall with a 7-foot wingspan. He primarily plays small forward but can also guard power forwards and stretch the floor as a stretch-four in small-ball lineups.
Final Thoughts
Julian Champagnie’s rise wasn’t loud. It wasn’t instant. It was built on early mornings in the gym, late nights watching film, and a refusal to quit when others doubted him. From julian champagnie college days at St. John’s to clutch performances against the timberwolves, he’s proven that impact doesn’t always come with hype.
He’s not chasing fame. He’s chasing wins. And in today’s NBA, that kind of mindset is rarer than a 7-footer who can shoot.
If you’re looking for the next underrated star to root for—the guy who does the little things, shows up every night, and lets his game speak—look no further than Julian Champagnie. The best part? He’s just getting started.