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Wizards Forward Reveals Secret Behind Breakout Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Gerard Angelo Samillano | Last updated Mar 30, 2025 11:34 AM ET

Justin Champagnie has been a pleasant surprise for the Washington Wizards. A journeyman prior to joining the team, Champagnie earned an extension with Washington after his supreme effort playing for the team. He's been one of the more impressive players in a season full of struggles.

Talking to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Champagnie revealed the secret behind his success this season. The Wizards forward talked about how the support of his team has allowed him to perform to the best of his capabilities this season.

“I never really got an opportunity to go out there, play my full game and be myself,” Champagnie told HoopsHype. “I think this year they’ve allowed me to be myself, play my game, and they trust in what I do. It’s been a big confidence boost and has made me feel better knowing that I can be at this level and shine at this level.”

Champagnie, who went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft, bounced around a few teams before settling in Washington. He was first picked up by the Toronto Raptors, where he bounced between the main team and their G League affiliate, the Raptors 905. After two seasons in Toronto, Champagnie ended up signing with the Miami Heat's G League team, the Sioux Falls Skyforce.

In the middle of the 2024 season, Champagnie signed with the Wizards on a 10-day contract. The forward eventually ended up signing a two-way deal with Washington, and he performed well enough to sign a four-year, $10 million deal with the team.

This season, Champagnie is averaging 7.9 points and 5.1 rebounds per game on nearly 50/40 shooting from the field and from deep. Against the Brooklyn Nets, Champagnie played 17 minutes, scoring nine points and grabbing nine rebounds.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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