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Julian Champagnie puts up historically hot first half in Spurs' win
San Antonio Spurs forward Julian Champagnie. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Julian Champagnie puts up historically hot first half in Spurs' win

Even through Victor Wembanyama recorded another double-double and led the Spurs in scoring, he wasn't the talk of San Antonio on Tuesday night. 

Because one of his teammates made history in the Spurs' big 130-103 win over the Sacramento Kings. 

Julian Champagnie was historically hot in the first half 

As much of a factor as anyone, Julian Champagnie put up career numbers, mostly aided by a historic first half. He scored 24 of his 26 total points in the first half, drilling eight threes before halftime. 

Champagnie's 24 points from the first half, with 18 coming in the second quarter, tied his career high for any half. His eight made three-pointers set a new franchise record for the most ever in a half by any player in Spurs history, according to ESPN Insights. 

Champagnie hit 8-of-13 from long range and was 9-of-14 from the field in 25 minutes, which ironically matched his fewest in a game so far this season. He recorded three rebounds and dished out a trio of assists as well.

The one performance elevated Champagnie's season scoring average from 8.7 points per game to 13.0. He now also carries averages of 2.8 boards and 1.8 assists through four games. 

Julian Champagnie has built up a reputation as durable and reliable 

Known for his durability, Champagnie opened the 2026-27 season after playing in all 82 regular-season games in back-to-back years. He finished 2025-26 with a career-best 11.1 points per game. 

At just 25, Champagnie, a two-time All-Big East honoree in college, has already exceeded most expectations for an undrafted player, although it also appears he's getting better every year and is being showcased when hot by the Spurs' system. 

Mike J. Asti

Mike Asti is an experienced media personality and journalist with a vast resume and skillset, most notably from time with TribLIVE Radio and WPXI-TV. Asti now serves as the Managing Editor of WV Sports Now, where he leads the coverage of WVU sports. He has also covered the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and other teams within the Pittsburgh market

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