Julian Champagnie Drains 11 Threes in Career-High 36-Point Outburst as Spurs Stun Knicks

San Antonio — Julian Champagnie is rapidly evolving from developmental flier to indispensable starter for the San Antonio Spurs, and the NBA world is beginning to take notice. The 24-year-old forward was elevated into the first unit this week, pushing veteran Harrison Barnes to the bench as the franchise eyes roster flexibility ahead of next week’s trade deadline. Coach Mitch Johnson’s decision wasn’t just about the future cap sheet; it rewards Champagnie’s two-way surge that already features a franchise-record 11 made threes on New Year’s Eve and league-leading availability—150 straight games played. Why the sudden spike in buzz? • Consistent shooting: Champagnie leads San Antonio in total three-pointers and is flirting with 40 percent from deep since January 1. • Defensive versatility: At 6-foot-8, he switches 2-through-4, a perfect complement to Victor Wembanyama’s rim protection. • Viral highlights: A thunderous transition dunk on national TV and, conversely, getting posterized by Tobias Harris—both clips racked up millions of views in 24 hours, pushing his name into social feeds worldwide. • Resilience: After taking an inadvertent eye poke in Houston last week, Champagnie passed all follow-up tests and is expected to play without restriction Friday versus Oklahoma City. What it means going forward 1. Spurs spacing: With Devin Vassell healthy, a starting wing trio of Vassell-Champagnie-Sochan gives Wembanyama maximum real estate in the paint. 2. Trade-deadline optics: Barnes’ $19 million expiring deal could now be bundled with other contracts to chase an All-Star-caliber guard, while Champagnie’s $3 million team option for 2026-27 is arguably the NBA’s best bargain. 3. Fantasy basketball impact: Locked-in minutes and green-light range make Champagnie a must-add in 12-team leagues, especially for managers hunting threes and steals. Bottom line Julian Champagnie has gone from undrafted long shot to a centerpiece of San Antonio’s rebuild in less than two seasons. If his current arc continues, the Brooklyn native won’t just be a trending search term—he’ll be a name scribbled onto Most Improved Player ballots come April.