Champagnie Reflects on Undrafted Experience from Family Home

The 2022 NBA Draft took place at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, but Julian Champagnie found himself at home, watching the event unfold on television. With uncertainty surrounding his status, he made the choice to stay close to his family rather than attending the event in person. Unfortunately for Champagnie, he did not hear his name called during the draft.

Speaking candidly about his feelings, Champagnie recalled, “I was literally in the back of the crib in the corner crying. I was tight. I was p‑‑‑ed. I felt like I did enough to get there.” Despite the disappointment of going undrafted, he was reassured by the encouragement of others, who told him that not being selected “don’t matter.”

The young athlete acknowledged the challenges that come with this setback, admitting, “It makes it a little harder. But it makes it a little more me. It makes it a little more personal.” Champagnie's journey serves as a reminder of the emotional rollercoaster many players face leading up to the draft.