San Antonio Spurs forward Julian Champagnie recalled his journey from being waived to becoming a starter on an NBA Finals team three years after.
The 24-year-old forward is one of the key factors for the Spurs’ burst against the Thunder, including in Game 7 where he dropped 20 points, six rebounds, six made triples and a solo 12-0 run.
In a post-game interview, Champagnie gave credit for the franchise after being waived by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2023, where he thought he will be out of the league.
“I thought it was over. I ain’t gonna lie to you. We’re always told how small the window is to get into the league, stay there, and make a career for yourself. Getting waived with no warning, no nothing, explanation or anything, it was tough. It was tough for a 23-year-old kid trying to go out there and chase my dreams, telling myself, ‘You can do this.’”
The sharpshooter has been told that he will end up in San Antonio, and decided to focus on getting fitted on the system.
“My agent told me it could be anywhere. Obviously, it ended up being San Antonio. I put my head down and decided to make it work… And find that spot on the team. Just fit in where I can. It’s been treating me good so far.”
Champagnie averaged 11.3 points and 5.8 boards over the postseason, being the Spurs’ fifth starter along with De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, and Victor Wembanyama.
