Pittsburgh Basketball: 5 major offseason storylines for Panthers in 2021

2. Will Justin Champagnie return to Pittsburgh?

When the former three-star combo forward came seemingly out of nowhere two seasons ago to lead Pittsburgh in both scoring (12.7 ppg) and rebounding (7.0 rpg), it was clear that the program found a diamond in the rough from the 2020 recruiting class.

But nobody thought Champagnie was capable of what he did this past season. He had back-to-back games of at least 20 points and 20 rebounds, scored in double figures in every single game and had 10+ rebounds 14 out of 20 times. Overall, the 6’7 forward averaged 18.0 ppg and 11.6 rpg and had the team placed better in the standings, could’ve very well won ACC Player of the Year.

As expected and deserved, Champagnie made the move to enter the 2021 NBA Draft, while keeping his eligibility. That in itself is a win for those hoping he comes back, as many players have already made the move to go pro while signing agents. The star Panther has already declared that he isn’t transferring and has a genuine love for the program, coaching staff, and city so there’s a real chance he can return for his junior season.

Champagnie does have a few things to work on that would explain why he isn’t a lock to be selected in the top-45, which is where players get guaranteed deals. The first is that he’s a 6’6-6’7 “tweener”, which always gives scouts pause. The current offensive structure makes it easier to make the transition towards the NBA but not when your three-point percentage in two seasons is 28%. The lack of passing numbers also means that the ball “sticks” with Champagnie a little too much, although Pittsburgh fans understand why when considering the offense that surrounds him.

For Pittsburgh to have any hope of returning to the NCAA Tournament, they’re going to need Champagnie to come back. And they wouldn’t even need him to play better than he did last season, just more efficient and with a better supporting cast (cough cough Efton Reid).

If he can make 35% of his three-point shots and become a better passer, Champagnie will be a first-round lock in the 2022 draft. He has all the intangibles a pro team could dream of, he’ll just have to get the fundamentals down flat to be an even better prospect.