"And he's the type of guy that makes you want to die for him on the court, because he gives so much effort, and he's got such an amazing story."
A Rocky Start
That story sounds like a fairy tale now, but Champagnie's journey to get here was anything but.
Three years ago, Champagnie wondered if he was even going to get another chance in the NBA.
On Feb. 14, 2023, the Philadelphia 76ers waived Champagnie from his two-way NBA contract.
The 76ers never told him why.
His exit created a two-way contract spot for Mac McClung, who was about to represent the 76ers in the All-Star Saturday Night Dunk Contest.
"Back then, being what, like 22 I think I was [21, actually], I thought it was over. I ain't gonna lie to you," said Champagnie.
"I was always told how small the window is to kind of push and get your foot in the league and stay there and make a career for yourself.
So getting opportunity only in the G League, and then getting waived with no warning, no nothing, explanation or anything.
It was tough.
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It was tough for a 22-year-old kid who was just thinking I was gonna chase my dreams and telling myself, 'You could do this.'"
"Obviously, I had no clue where I was gonna end up. My agent told me, like, it could be anywhere.
Obviously ended up being in San Antonio. I put my head down and said, 'Make it work.'
