Julian Reese is officially headed to the NBA, and he’s doing it in iconic fashion — joining one of the league’s most storied franchises, the Los Angeles Lakers. After going undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, the former Maryland forward quickly found a home, signing with the Lakers as an undrafted free agent. The move sparked immediate buzz, not just for his basketball potential, but for the powerful support from his superstar sister, Angel Reese — WNBA star, LSU legend, and a cultural icon in her own right.
While some might have overlooked Julian Reese on draft night, those close to the game know that talent runs deep in the Reese family. His journey to the Lakers is more than a stroke of luck — it’s the culmination of years of hard work, development, and a relentless mindset. And with Angel by his side, cheering him on every step of the way, the Reese siblings are now poised to take basketball’s biggest stages by storm.
Julian Reese carved out a respected college career at the University of Maryland, where he became one of the program’s most consistent and impactful big men in recent memory. A 6’9” forward with a strong build and evolving skill set, he averaged a career-best 13.7 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game in his senior season. He anchored Maryland’s interior presence, showcasing physical toughness, defensive versatility, and an improved offensive game around the rim.
Despite going undrafted, Reese’s college résumé made him an appealing pickup for NBA teams looking for frontcourt depth. The Lakers, in particular, saw the potential for growth and value in bringing Reese into their system. Known for developing overlooked talent and maximizing roster versatility, Los Angeles is giving Julian a real opportunity to earn a spot — and potentially contribute.
Reese’s decision to declare for the draft early came with some risk. But the Lakers signing him minutes after the draft ended shows there was serious interest in the Maryland big man. The Lakers likely envision him as a high-motor, defensive-minded backup who could grow into a solid rotation player with the right development.
It didn’t take long for Angel Reese to react. The WNBA rookie, who was recently drafted by the Chicago Sky and has already made headlines for her immediate impact on the professional game, took to social media to celebrate her brother’s moment:
“My baby brother going to the LEAGUE!! Let’s gooooooo!!! @ju1ianreese — Lakers got a real one.”
Angel’s joy was palpable, and her pride was more than justified. The Reese siblings have supported each other publicly throughout their careers — from Angel’s national championship run with LSU to Julian’s rise at Maryland. Now, with both of them playing professionally, their shared success marks a new chapter in what’s quickly becoming one of basketball’s most inspiring family stories.
Angel has long been an advocate for her family and her roots in Baltimore. Their journey from local gyms to the NBA and WNBA spotlight is a living testament to perseverance and belief — and now, their names are etched across two of the sport’s most elite stages.
Julian Reese joins a growing list of undrafted players who have gone on to carve successful NBA careers. In fact, the Lakers are no strangers to undrafted gems — players like Austin Reaves have become integral parts of the team after entering the league without hearing their name called on draft night. For Reese, this is an opportunity to prove the doubters wrong and show that he belongs on this level.
His skillset fits well with the modern game: a high-energy big man who can defend multiple positions, rebound with force, and finish inside. While his three-point shot remains a work in progress, scouts have praised his willingness to improve and his coachability. In a Lakers organization that values development and depth, Julian could find a real lane toward making the roster, or at minimum, earning a two-way contract to split time with the G-League affiliate South Bay Lakers.
More than just a raw project, Julian brings a competitive edge that aligns with the Lakers’ new commitment to balancing veteran championship aspirations with youth development. As the team continues reshaping its identity around stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis — and potentially new additions in the coming free agency period — hungry young players like Reese are critical.
Reese’s rise at Maryland didn’t come easy. He entered the program with potential but needed time to grow into his role. Under head coach Kevin Willard, Reese blossomed, becoming the emotional and physical anchor of the Terrapins. He helped lead Maryland to NCAA Tournament appearances and was widely respected for his leadership and toughness.
Now, the jump to the NBA represents the next challenge — but also a reward for the growth he’s shown.
“Julian’s been a rock for us,” Coach Willard said in a recent interview. “He’s the kind of player you win with. He works, he listens, and he battles. The Lakers are getting someone who’s going to give everything he has.”
His time at Maryland also prepared him for the spotlight. Playing in the Big Ten, against physical and experienced frontcourts, helped sharpen his instincts and force him to adapt. Now, those battles will serve him well as he tries to find his niche in one of the most competitive leagues in the world.
Julian and Angel Reese represent something bigger than just personal success. They symbolize a generation of athletes redefining the narrative around hard work, image, identity, and opportunity.
Angel’s dominance and charisma have already made her a cultural force, transcending the hardwood. Her presence in the WNBA has helped drive record viewership and national dialogue, while her unapologetic confidence has inspired countless young athletes. Now, Julian steps into his own light — not as Angel’s brother, but as a player carving his own legacy.
Their story is about more than basketball. It’s about family, representation, and resilience. It’s about lifting each other up, and proving that no matter where you start — Baltimore, Baton Rouge, College Park — your dreams can be real, even if the path is unconventional.
The next few months will be critical. Reese will likely join the Lakers for Summer League play in Las Vegas, where he’ll get the chance to showcase his game against other young prospects and NBA hopefuls. Strong performances there could secure him a spot on the Lakers’ training camp roster, or even earn a two-way or Exhibit 10 deal — contracts often used to funnel players into the team’s developmental system.
It’s a foot in the door, and that’s all Julian needs.
The NBA has shown time and time again that talent eventually rises — and players with drive, toughness, and a chip on their shoulder often find a way to make it. Reese fits that mold. He’s not just here to make up numbers — he’s here to compete, to grow, and to prove that undrafted doesn’t mean unworthy.
And with his sister in his corner — and now, an entire Lakers fan base ready to watch him — Julian Reese just might be the next big surprise out of this year’s rookie class.
One thing’s for sure: the Reese legacy is just getting started.
