The Grit-and-Grind Wing the Wizards Didn't Know They Needed
Every team needs a player willing to do the dirty work, and for the Washington Wizards, Justin Champagnie has quickly become that guy. He’s not the flashiest scorer or the most talked-about name on the roster, but his hustle, toughness, and willingness to take on the hard assignments have made him invaluable. Whether it’s crashing the glass, defending multiple positions, or bringing energy off the bench, Champagnie embodies the kind of grit-and-grind presence the Wizards didn’t even realize they were missing. In a young team still searching for its identity, his impact goes far beyond the box score.
Justin Champagnie’s journey to this point in the NBA has been anything but traditional. After a standout college career at Pittsburgh, where he led the ACC in rebounds, the forward went undrafted in 2021. He grinded his way through the NBA G League with the Raptors and Celtics, sharpening his three-point shot and overall game, before earning a short-term deal with the Washington Wizards. Following an impressive season in D.C., averaging nearly nine points, six rebounds while shooting 50% from the field and 38% from three, Champagnie secured a four-year, $10 million contract, cementing himself as part of the Wizards’ youthful core. His team-friendly deal also helps set the Washington Wizards up for a healthy future, investing in his future in Washington, but also opening him up to team-friendly trade options in case a good offer comes up for him.
So why would Washington want to part with such a valuable asset? Champagnie has proven on both ends of the floor that he’s tenacious, energetic, and relentlessly hard-working. He fits seamlessly with the Wizards’ young core, players like Bub Carrington, Alex Sarr, and Kyshawn George, who thrive on toughness and refuse to shy away from challenges. Every NBA team looks for players like Champagnie: hungry competitors who fight for every opportunity and make the most of it. While building through the draft is essential, uncovering and developing players like Champagnie is just as important to a franchise’s long-term success.
Washington has found a true asset in the young forward. His growth, relentless work ethic, and eagerness to seize every opportunity are qualities not often seen in developing players. Keeping him around is especially valuable given his team-friendly contract, and the situation benefits him as well, providing the perfect environment to continue improving. For both Champagnie and the Wizards’ young core, it’s a win-win scenario that strengthens the foundation of the rebuild.
