Decision-time for 2019 local wing Julian Champagnie

The new St. John’s staff, led by Mike Anderson, is still recruiting players for the incoming classes.

Local guard Julian Champagnie, whose twin brother Justin committed to Pittsburgh, is one player of interest. He announces his college decision tonight, choosing between joining his brother at Pittsburgh or one of Cincinnati, Seton Hall, Washington State and St. John’s.

Champagnie, who played at Bishop Loughlin High and was planning on doing a post-graduate year, has been a complement to his brother’s game for years. They had discussed playing together on the college level. But after Justin (the one with the big hair) committed, Julian (the one with the close-cropped hair) stated he would play a prep year before deciding to stick with the class of 2019.

A 6’6” guard who appears to be less heralded than his brother — Justin emerged as a star earlier, before Julian earned more time — Julian has some hops and skill.

For New Heights AAU last summer, Julian Champagnie logged heavy minutes alongside his twin, handing out more assists (12% of his teammates’ made shots), grabbing rebounds on the offensive and defensive ends, and shooting 66% inside the arc while getting to the line a fair amount.

Having big athletic guards can really help a defense; and Julian looks to have a solid skill set.

St. John’s has three available scholarships, and are hoping to host USC grad transfer point guard Derryck Thornton in the coming weeks.

The Johnnies have some returning talent in Mustapha Heron and LJ Figueroa, but need to add quality depth to run the high-energy system Mike Anderson will install.

Highlights

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