Julian Reese, the younger brother of WNBA star Angel Reese, has taken a significant leap in his basketball career by signing with the Washington Wizards. This milestone follows an impressive collegiate career at the University of Maryland and a brief stint in the G-League.
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Born on 30 June 2003, Julian grew up in Baltimore, Maryland, where he and Angel honed their basketball skills together at St. Frances Academy. Both siblings have always shared a passion for the sport, which has shaped their journey since childhood. In an interview, Angel recounted how their competitive nature fueled their development, stating that every game on their front court was intense. “It helped shape me into who I am now,” Angel remarked.
After dominating the college basketball scene, Julian signed as an undrafted free agent with the Los Angeles Lakers in June 2025. His initial foray into professional basketball was marked by participation in the NBA Summer League, and he received valuable advice from his sister. “I told him to show up first and make sure you’re at the front of the line for drills,” Angel advised, conveying her support for his burgeoning career.
Although Julian’s time with the Lakers was short-lived, he transitioned to the Toronto Raptors 905 G-League team, showcasing his prowess on the court. By February 2026, he secured a two-year contract with the Washington Wizards, marking an exciting new chapter in his professional journey. His recent performance included a standout game where he scored 26 points against the Utah Jazz, a personal best that highlights his potential in the NBA.
The Reese siblings are known for their close-knit relationship, often pushing each other to excel. Both attended the University of Maryland, where Angel made waves before moving on to LSU, while Julian became an integral player for the Terrapins. Their mother fondly recalled Julian’s commitment to Maryland on Mother’s Day in 2020, when he surprised her with the news through a special sweatshirt emblazoned with the word “committed.”
Julian has established himself as a key defensive player, receiving recognition for his strategic understanding of the game. His Coach, Kevin Willard, highlighted Julian’s physical presence and defensive skills, stating, “He knows our drop coverage really well. He’s a smart basketball player.” This ability helped position him as a vital member of the team, often playing significant minutes.
Outside of their athletic achievements, Angel and Julian have also ventured into business together, particularly since the introduction of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals in 2021. Angel has included her brother in several deals and has expressed a desire for them to continue collaborating professionally. “I try to include him in as many deals as I can because once I’m able to leave here [Maryland], hopefully we can sign with the same agency,” she remarked.
Describing their distinct personalities, their mother noted that while Angel has a strong and outspoken character, Julian is more laid back. This contrast appears in their reactions to success, such as when they landed a deal with NFL icon Tom Brady. While Angel was exuberant about the opportunity, Julian maintained a more composed demeanor, illustrating their differing approaches to both sport and life.
As Julian embarks on his NBA journey with the Washington Wizards and seeks to carve out his legacy distinct from that of his sister, there is much anticipation around his future in professional basketball. With the support of his sister and the experience gained during his college years, he appears well poised to make his mark in the league.