The San Antonio Spurs have taken an early lead over the New York Knicks in Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals, thanks in part to a strong first-half performance from Julian Champagnie. The Spurs led 55-48 at halftime, with Champagnie emerging as the game’s top scorer after pouring in 15 points on 5-for-6 shooting from beyond the arc. He was the only player on the floor with more than two three-pointers at that point, giving San Antonio a major boost in a matchup loaded with star power.
Champagnie’s rise has been notable because he was not drafted out of St. John’s and was waived by the Philadelphia 76ers in February 2023 before joining the Spurs. Since then, he has carved out a valuable role and earned a contract extension during the 2023-24 season. At just 24 years old, the New York native has become an important piece of San Antonio’s team-oriented success, and his performance against his hometown Knicks has added another layer to the story.
His deal is considered extremely modest by NBA standards. Champagnie is reportedly making $3 million per season on a four-year, $12 million contract, which accounts for only 1.94% of the Spurs’ salary cap. That figure stands out even more given his impact in a high-profile playoff setting. While the Spurs have relied on depth and collective production throughout the season, Champagnie has consistently contributed as part of that approach.
With the Spurs in position to open the Finals with momentum, Champagnie’s first-half shooting has made him one of the key figures in the game. Facing the Knicks in his hometown, he has embraced the spotlight and helped San Antonio build a lead against one of the league’s biggest brands. If the Spurs continue their run, Champagnie’s performance and bargain contract will remain part of the conversation as the series progresses.
