Julian Reese, the standout Maryland Terrapins forward and brother of WNBA All-Star Angel Reese, is officially headed to the Los Angeles Lakers after signing an undrafted free agent deal. The news has electrified basketball fans and sparked a wave of support from the Reese family, especially from Angel, who has been vocal about her pride in her brother’s journey. As the Lakers look to bolster their roster for the upcoming NBA season, Julian’s addition brings both promise and a compelling family storyline to Los Angeles.
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Julian Reese Signs with Lakers: A New Chapter Begins
The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the NBA’s most storied franchises, have signed Julian Reese to a Summer League contract following the 2025 NBA Draft. Despite not hearing his name called on draft night, Julian’s impressive college resume and physical presence made him an attractive target for teams seeking frontcourt depth. At 6-foot-9 and 230 pounds, Reese brings rebounding, defense, and toughness to a Lakers squad eager to surround stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic with young talent and energy.
Julian’s journey to this moment has been defined by perseverance and steady improvement. In his senior season at Maryland, he averaged 13.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting an efficient 55.5% from the field. He started all 36 games, led his team in rebounds and blocks, and finished his college career with over 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds—a feat achieved by only one other player in Maryland history.
Key Point Summary
- Julian Reese signs an undrafted free agent deal with the Los Angeles Lakers.
- Reese is the younger brother of WNBA All-Star Angel Reese.
- He averaged 13.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game as a senior at Maryland.
- Reese will play in the NBA Summer League, aiming to earn a spot on the Lakers’ regular season roster.
- Angel Reese has publicly expressed her pride and excitement for her brother’s NBA opportunity.
Angel Reese’s Emotional Reaction and Family Support
Angel Reese, fresh off her own WNBA stardom, took to social media to celebrate her brother’s accomplishment. She has long credited their sibling rivalry and shared basketball upbringing as key factors in their respective successes. Angel’s support has been unwavering, from attending Julian’s college games in custom “JuJu Sister” jerseys to including him in her NIL deals and media appearances.
The Reese siblings’ close bond is well-documented. Both attended the University of Maryland before Angel transferred to LSU, where she won a national championship. Their competitive backyard battles and mutual drive have shaped their basketball journeys, making Julian’s NBA signing a proud family milestone.
“Proud of you! So excited for your next journey,” Angel wrote after Maryland’s NCAA tournament run, a sentiment she echoed as Julian signed with the Lakers.
What Julian Reese Brings to the Lakers
Julian Reese’s college career was marked by durability, consistency, and elite rebounding. He ranked second in Maryland history for career rebounds and finished with 37 double-doubles, the fifth-most in program history. His defensive instincts and physicality make him a valuable asset for the Lakers, who have been searching for size and rim protection to complement their star-studded backcourt.
During the Portsmouth Invitational, a showcase for NBA hopefuls, Reese averaged 15.5 points and 9.5 rebounds, demonstrating his ability to compete against top college talent. While he did not attempt a three-pointer in his final three college seasons, his efficiency around the rim and free-throw improvement (73.4% as a senior) suggest room for further development.
Julian Reese’s College Stats (Senior Season)
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 13.3 |
| Rebounds per game | 9.0 |
| Blocks per game | 1.5 |
| Steals per game | 1.1 |
| Field Goal % | 55.5% |
| Free Throw % | 73.4% |
| Double-Doubles | 37 career |
Summer League: The Next Test
Julian Reese will join the Lakers’ Summer League squad, which is expected to feature high-profile names like Bronny James and Dalton Knecht. The team’s first game is scheduled for July 10 against the Dallas Mavericks and No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg. With the Lakers seeking frontcourt depth, Reese’s performance could secure him an invitation to training camp and potentially a two-way contract.
The Summer League is a proving ground for undrafted players, and Reese’s physical style and rebounding prowess could make him a standout. If he impresses, he could become a valuable rotation piece for the Lakers as they chase another championship.
The Reese Family Legacy Grows
Julian’s signing with the Lakers adds another chapter to the Reese family’s growing basketball legacy. With Angel making waves in the WNBA and Julian now taking his shot at the NBA, the siblings have become one of the most prominent brother-sister duos in professional basketball. Their journey from Maryland’s courts to the national stage is a testament to hard work, family support, and relentless ambition.
As the NBA Summer League approaches, all eyes will be on Julian Reese as he looks to make his mark in Los Angeles. Angel Reese’s pride and encouragement will undoubtedly fuel his drive, making this a story to watch for fans of both the NBA and WNBA.
Stay tuned for updates on Julian Reese’s progress with the Lakers and more reactions from Angel Reese as this exciting new chapter unfolds.
Don’t miss a moment of Julian Reese’s NBA journey—follow the Lakers’ Summer League action and see if the Reese family can add another star to its legacy.