The basketball world is abuzz as Julian Reese signs with Lakers, marking a pivotal moment for the undrafted free agent and his family. On June 27, 2025, the Los Angeles Lakers announced that Julian Reese, a 6-foot-9 power forward from Maryland, joined their Summer League roster after going unselected in the 2025 NBA Draft. His sister, WNBA All-Star Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky, celebrated the news with a heartfelt post on X, writing, “OPPORTUNITY. COME ON JU.” This signing not only highlights Julian’s potential but also underscores the Reese family’s growing influence in professional basketball.
Julian Reese’s Path to the NBA
Julian Reese’s journey to the moment he signs with Lakers is a story of grit and determination. During his four years at Maryland, he became a standout, averaging 11.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. He joined an elite group as one of only two Terrapins to record 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds in a career. His senior year was his strongest, posting 13.3 points and nine rebounds per game, earning All-Big Ten honorable mention for the third consecutive season. Despite these stats, the NBA Draft overlooked him, making his Exhibit-10 contract with the Lakers a critical opportunity.
The Lakers have a history of turning undrafted players into stars, with names like Austin Reaves and Alex Caruso as proof. Julian’s size, defensive instincts, and ability to finish at the rim align with the team’s need for frontcourt depth alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić. His Summer League debut, set for July 10 in Las Vegas, will be a chance to showcase his skills and compete for a roster spot.
Angel Reese’s Heartfelt Support
When Julian Reese signs with Lakers, Angel Reese’s reaction was immediate and emotional. Her viral X post captured the pride of a sister who has watched her brother grind for this moment. The Reese siblings, raised in Randallstown, Maryland, share a bond forged through years of pushing each other on the court. Angel, a national champion at LSU and a WNBA record-holder for rebounds in a season, knows the challenges of professional sports. Her support amplifies Julian’s milestone, with their mother also joining in, posting a screenshot of the signing with “#NBASummerLeague” on Instagram.
Fans across platforms like YouTube and Instagram have rallied behind the Reese family. Comments on posts from Maryland’s basketball account and Lakers fan pages praise the siblings’ work ethic, with one user writing, “The Reese family is unstoppable!” This moment highlights the power of family in navigating the highs and lows of athletic careers.
Key Point Summary:
- Julian Reese signs with Lakers as an undrafted free agent on June 27, 2025.
- He joins the NBA Summer League roster, aiming for a permanent role.
- Angel Reese celebrated her brother’s signing with a viral X post.
- Julian’s Maryland career included 1,488 points and 1,015 rebounds.
Challenges Ahead for Julian
While Julian Reese signs with Lakers on an Exhibit-10 deal, the path to a guaranteed roster spot is tough. This non-guaranteed contract means he must shine in the Summer League to earn a training camp invite or a G-League position. His college game lacked a three-point shot, a potential drawback in today’s NBA, but his 55.7% field goal percentage and 37 double-doubles highlight his efficiency and rebounding strength. These skills could make him a valuable asset for a Lakers team seeking versatile big men.
Julian will face competition from other undrafted signings like Villanova’s Eric Dixon and North Carolina’s RJ Davis, also on the Lakers’ Summer League roster. Fans on YouTube are optimistic, with some calling him a “hidden gem” who could follow the undrafted-to-star pipeline. His defensive tenacity and physicality will be key in standing out.
The Reese Family’s Basketball Legacy
The moment Julian Reese signs with Lakers adds a new chapter to the Reese family’s story. Angel’s rise to WNBA stardom, coupled with Julian’s NBA opportunity, showcases their shared drive. Social media is alight with excitement, from Instagram highlight reels of Julian’s Maryland dunks to YouTube breakdowns of his potential fit with the Lakers. Fans comment, “Reese siblings are taking over!” and “Julian’s defense is NBA-ready.” The Lakers’ bet on Julian reflects their strategy of nurturing high-potential talent, and the Reese name is now synonymous with resilience.
Looking Toward the Summer League
As the NBA Summer League looms, Julian Reese signs with Lakers at a time when all eyes will be on his performance. His ability to adapt, refine his offensive game, and leverage his defensive skills will determine his next steps. With Angel cheering him on and a fanbase eager for his success, Julian has a platform to prove himself. The Lakers’ track record with undrafted players gives him a fighting chance to make a mark.
Keep up with Julian Reese’s Summer League journey and share your excitement on social media to support the Reese family’s basketball rise!