The NBA world has seen Justin and Julian Champagnie’s fierce sibling rivalry take center stage. Justin, playing for the Washington Wizards, hit a three-pointer right into Julian’s face, who was representing the San Antonio Spurs. The playful intensity continued as Justin taunted Julian down the court.

Despite Justin scoring 14 points, it was Julian’s Spurs who claimed the win 131–121. Behind this rivalry lies a strong family bond, especially between the brothers, who’ve supported themselves in their basketball journeys since day one. So, let’s take a deeper look at their story.

Who are Justin Champagnie’s brothers?

Justin Champagnie, a rising star in the NBA, has two brothers—Julian and Jaylen. While Jaylen’s life remains largely private, his other brother, Julian, is someone you must be familiar with. He is Justin’s twin brother. The two brothers have been inseparable for much of their lives, especially growing up in Brooklyn. Fast forward to today, the both brothers play in the NBA. As we know, Julian plays for the Spurs, and Justin plays with the Wizards. As if the twins are living their childhood dreams! Yes, it’s hard that the ones who were rejected from middle school basketball are the ones who now play in the NBA. Time changes, right?

Together, they shared a love for basketball and a dream to make it to the middle school team. Unfortunately, that dream didn’t come true when they were cut from the team. Yet, this setback didn’t stop them. Instead, it fueled their determination. The Champagnie brothers have always been more than just teammates. They were the dynamic duo.

For 17 long years, they lived, played, and trained together, each pushing the other to be better. They attended the same high school, played in the same AAU programs, and were often called “the twins” because of their similar playing styles and skills. This bond was undeniable, and their plan was clear—go to the next level together. But as we know, life has a funny way of altering plans. But there was an end too.

Justin and Julian’s paths took a turn when Pittsburgh showed interest in Justin. Julian, on the other hand, wasn’t yet ready for college. He was upset, feeling as though their shared dream was slipping away. “I was upset, only because we had a plan,” Julian shared. But looking back, that separation may have been the best decision for both. As much as they cherished playing together, this was a chance for each of them to grow on their own.

He went on to have an impressive freshman year at Pittsburgh, averaging 12.7 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. He was also named the ACC Freshman of the Week. Meanwhile, Julian found his place at St. John’s, quickly becoming an essential part of the team. “It was the right thing for us to split apart,” Justin explained, reflecting on the journey. The brothers had become individuals, no longer simply seen as a twin package but as players in their own right.

The transition wasn’t easy. Julian admitted to feeling alone at first. They had always been each other’s biggest motivators, their strongest critics. Without each other by their side, the road was tougher. But their bond remained strong, even from a distance. They now rely on FaceTime, sometimes speaking for hours a day. Julian watches Justin play, texting him real-time suggestions. Justin does the same for Julian, offering advice and encouragement.

Despite their physical distance, their connection hasn’t weakened. The duo compliments each other, in success, in dips, or in anything that requires a shoulder. Brotherhood is understandable, but what about their parents?

Who are Justin Champagnie’s parents?

Justin Champagnie’s parents are Ranford and Christina Champagnie, a couple who have been supportive throughout their sons’ basketball careers. Ranford, his father, played college soccer at St. John’s University, where he helped his team reach the 1996 National Championship. He later became the head coach for men’s soccer at Baruch College, a position he held from 2004 to 2014. Ranford has a slight pain. Jokingly, he was ‘disappointed’ when his sons chose basketball over soccer, something he wanted to witness. But that is what life is.

Christina, his mother, was a teacher in the second grade. She has always been a proud supporter of both her sons’ athletic ambitions. According to the New York Post, she and Ranford often watch their twin sons’ games separately. When one plays, they tape the other’s game. Christina remarked, “We have everyone watching — grandparents, aunts, uncles. I’m grateful they’re both playing at a Division I level.”

Despite their different basketball styles, Justin and Julian share a competitive bond. People know Justin for his scoring ability and aggressive play. In contrast, Julian excels in rebounding and defense. Off the court, Justin is outgoing, while Julian is more reserved. “We argue about everything,” Justin said, “I feel like it was the best time for us to kind of make our own path and go our separate ways.”

The brothers had to choose different colleges—Justin at Pittsburgh and Julian at St. John’s, hard but did. And today we see them at the NBA, again playing for different teams. But who knows, there might be trade, landing them together.