Spurs Face $87 Million Decision on 3-And-D Wing This Offseason

The San Antonio Spurs are facing a major offseason decision after a strong 2025-26 campaign that ended with a 62-20 regular-season record and a No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. San Antonio returned to the playoffs for the first time since the 2018-19 season, and much of the team’s progress has been credited to first-year head coach Mitch Johnson and a young roster that has taken a major step forward.

One of the biggest breakout performers has been forward Julian Champagnie, who has become an important part of the Spurs’ rotation and could soon be rewarded with a significant contract. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Champagnie is eligible for a four-year, $87 million extension this offseason if the Spurs decline his $3 million team option for next season. Marks added that Champagnie would remain extension-eligible in July even if the option is exercised.

Champagnie’s rise has been steady. After going undrafted in 2022, he had to work his way into the league. The Spurs claimed him off waivers during the 2022-23 season, and he later moved from a two-way contract to a standard NBA deal in the summer of 2023. This season, the 24-year-old forward posted career-best numbers across the board. He appeared in all 82 regular-season games, starting 68, and averaged 11.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. His value has also carried into the playoffs, where he has continued to contribute as a starter.

In the postseason, Champagnie has averaged 10.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 43.2% from the field, 36.6% from three-point range and 83.3% from the free-throw line. His combination of perimeter shooting and defensive energy has made him a reliable piece for San Antonio as the franchise looks to build around its core.

Champagnie may not attract the same attention as Victor Wembanyama or rookie guard Dylan Harper, but his production has made his value clear. Whether the Spurs choose to extend him now or later, he appears positioned for a substantial payday.

San Antonio’s offseason will feature several major decisions. Wembanyama is eligible for a five-year rookie extension that could be worth $251 million, with incentives that could raise it to $301 million if he earns certain league honors in 2026-27. Meanwhile, Harper’s strong postseason play has added another layer to the Spurs’ roster planning, especially with De’Aaron Fox already on a four-year, $229 million extension. With Harper emerging, questions could arise about Fox’s role if he is pushed toward the bench.

The Spurs appear to be building toward a powerful future, but choosing the right pieces around Wembanyama will be one of the organization’s most important challenges.