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 noteworthy because it marks a significant milestone for the Reese family, as Julian’s sister, Angel Reese, is one of the brightest stars in the WNBA. The story of two siblings pursuing their professional basketball dreams on prominent platforms—one in the NBA and the other in the WNBA—is a compelling narrative of family, talent, and ambition.
Julian Reese’s Path: From Maryland to the Lakers
Julian Reese, a 6-foot-9 forward from the University of Maryland, completed a standout college basketball career. In his senior year, he averaged 13.3 points and 9 rebounds per game, showcasing his versatility and skill on the court. Despite his impressive college career, Reese went undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft. However, the Los Angeles Lakers recognized his potential and signed him to an Exhibit 10 contract, allowing him to participate in the NBA Summer League and potentially earn a spot in the team’s training camp roster.
This signing is significant for the Lakers, who have been actively seeking to add size and depth to their frontcourt. Reese’s physical attributes and skill set make him an intriguing prospect, and his opportunity to compete with one of the NBA’s most storied franchises is a testament to his hard work and potential. While Julian may not be as highly touted as his sister Angel, who was a top-seven pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, this opportunity represents a crucial step in his professional journey.
Angel Reese’s Public Reaction and Support
Angel Reese, known for her confident and bold persona, has been a vocal supporter of her brother’s career. Her social media post, “COME ON JU,” following Julian’s signing with the Lakers, reflected both pride and encouragement. Angel’s support extends beyond social media; she traveled to San Francisco to watch Julian compete when Maryland reached the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, demonstrating the strong bond between the siblings.
Angel’s public backing adds a relatable and human element to the story of professional sports families. As a WNBA star, her endorsement carries weight and underscores the importance of familial support in the competitive world of professional athletics. The Reese siblings’ relationship serves as an inspiration, showing how mutual encouragement can fuel success in high-pressure environments.
The Reese Family’s Basketball Legacy and Impact
The Reese family’s basketball legacy is rapidly growing in prominence, 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 being featured on the cover of Vogue in 2025. Julian’s entry into the NBA ecosystem further enriches this family legacy and provides 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, especially since the Lakers are one of the NBA’s most popular franchises. The Reese family’s story challenges traditional sports narratives that often focus on male athletes alone, instead celebrating diverse paths to professional success. Their journey highlights the evolving landscape of sports, where both male and female athletes from the same family can achieve significant recognition in their respective leagues.
Challenges and Expectations Ahead for Julian Reese
While Julian Reese’s signing with the Lakers is an exciting opportunity, it also comes with challenges. As an undrafted free agent, he must prove himself in a competitive Summer League environment and navigate the demanding evaluations that come with this status. Unlike high draft picks who receive guaranteed contracts or significant playing time, undrafted players must demonstrate versatility, defensive prowess, and work ethic to earn a roster spot.
The Lakers’ current roster situation, which includes a need for size and scoring options, could provide Julian with the platform he needs to succeed. Summer Leagues often serve as proving grounds for players like Reese to earn invites to training camps or even two-way contracts that allow NBA and G-League play. His college experience at Maryland, where he was a consistent contributor, should serve as a foundation to adapt and grow at the professional level.
Broader Implications for Family Dynamics in Sports
The Reese siblings’ simultaneous professional journeys highlight the evolving landscape of sports, where male and female athletes from the same family gain significant recognition in their respective leagues. This dynamic challenges traditional sports narratives and celebrates diverse paths to success. It also encourages conversations about support systems, sibling rivalries, and collaborative motivation in sports families.
Angel and Julian’s relationship appears to be one of mutual encouragement rather than competition, reflective of modern understandings that athletes, regardless of gender, benefit from shared support. Their story resonates with fans and aspiring athletes, showcasing the power of familial bonds in achieving professional success.
Conclusion: A Story of Ambition, Support, and Potential
The Los Angeles Lakers’ signing of Julian Reese opens an exciting new chapter for both him and his family, particularly WNBA superstar Angel Reese. Their story embodies ambition, familial support, and the pursuit of excellence across professional basketball’s male and female tiers. Julian’s forthcoming Summer League performance will be pivotal, offering him a platform to prove that he can stand 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.
