The recent signing of Julian Reese by the Los Angeles Lakers as an undrafted free agent for the NBA Summer League has sparked considerable excitement in the basketball world. This development is particularly significant as it marks a pivotal moment for the Reese family, with Angel Reese, Julian’s older sister, already established as one of the brightest stars in the WNBA. The story of the Reese siblings is one of talent, ambition, and familial support, as both pursue their professional dreams in high-profile basketball leagues.
Julian Reese, a 6-foot-9 forward from the University of Maryland, concluded his college career with impressive statistics, averaging 13.3 points and 9 rebounds per game in his senior year. Despite not being selected in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Lakers recognized his potential and signed him to an Exhibit 10 contract, allowing him to participate in the Summer League and potentially earn a spot in the team’s training camp roster. This signing underscores the Lakers’ ongoing efforts to bolster their frontcourt with size and depth. Julian’s versatility and physical attributes make him an intriguing prospect, even if he is not as highly touted as his sister, who was a top-seven pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. This opportunity with the Lakers represents a significant step forward in Julian’s career, providing him with a platform to showcase his skills on one of the NBA’s most prestigious teams.
Angel Reese, known for her confident and bold personality, has been a vocal supporter of her brother’s journey. Her social media post, a simple yet powerful “COME ON JU,” reflects both sibling pride and an understanding of the hard work Julian must put in to transition from a Summer League hopeful to an NBA roster member. Beyond social media, Angel’s presence at Julian’s NCAA Tournament games, such as when Maryland reached the Sweet 16, highlights the strong bond between the siblings. Her public support adds a relatable and human element to the story of professional sports families, showcasing how mutual encouragement can fuel success.
The Reese family’s basketball legacy is rapidly growing, bridging the gap between men’s and women’s professional leagues. Angel Reese has already made a profound impact in the WNBA, setting records and earning national recognition, including a feature on the cover of Vogue in 2025. Julian’s entry into the NBA further enriches this legacy and serves as an inspiration for young athletes who follow both leagues. The dual-star situation—Angel in the WNBA and Julian in the NBA—is rare and draws significant media and fan attention, particularly since the Lakers are one of the NBA’s most popular franchises. Their mother’s public celebration of Julian’s signing reflects the collective pride and anticipation felt by the family, emphasizing the significance of this milestone.
However, Julian’s journey is not without challenges. As an undrafted free agent, he must prove himself in a highly competitive Summer League environment, where he will face rigorous evaluations. Unlike high draft picks who often receive guaranteed contracts or substantial playing time, undrafted players must demonstrate versatility, defensive skills, and work ethic to secure a roster spot. The Lakers’ current roster needs—particularly for size and scoring options—could provide Julian with the opportunity he needs if he performs well. Summer Leagues often serve as proving grounds for players like Reese to earn invites to training camps or two-way contracts that allow them to play in both the NBA and the G-League. Julian’s college experience at Maryland, where he was a consistent contributor, will be crucial as he adapts to the professional level.
The Reese siblings’ simultaneous professional journeys also highlight broader implications for family dynamics in sports. Their story challenges traditional narratives that often focus solely on male athletes, instead celebrating diverse paths to success in both men’s and women’s leagues. This dynamic encourages conversations about support systems, sibling rivalries, and collaborative motivation within sports families. Angel and Julian’s relationship appears to be one of mutual encouragement rather than competition, reflecting modern understandings that athletes, regardless of gender, benefit from shared support.
In conclusion, Julian Reese’s signing with the Los Angeles Lakers opens an exciting new chapter for both him and his family. Their story embodies ambition, familial support, and the pursuit of excellence across professional basketball’s male and female tiers. Julian’s performance in the Summer League will be pivotal, offering him a platform to prove that he can compete alongside elite talent and continue Maryland’s proud basketball tradition. This narrative resonates not only with basketball fans but also with anyone inspired by sibling bonds and the relentless drive to succeed at the highest levels. Angel Reese’s strong public backing and Julian’s determination highlight a promising journey that could enrich the Reese legacy for years to come, making their shared ascent a compelling story in professional sports.
