The 2025 NBA Draft dropped another player on the Los Angeles Lakers roster. Julian Reese, the younger brother of WNBA star Angel Reese, signed a summer league contract with the franchise. The 6-foot-9 forward based in Maryland offers more toughness and size to the Lakers’ growing depth of undrafted players.
Reese spent four seasons at Maryland, where he became a strong presence in the frontcourt. In his final two college years, he averaged 13.5 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game while He shot over 55% from the field. Reese will make a perfect fit as a tough, physical big man who can defend the rim and contribute to the board.
Congrats to @Reese10Julian on signing with the Lakers! pic.twitter.com/gsy0ee5zR6
— Maryland Men’s Basketball (@TerrapinHoops) June 27, 2025
“OPPORTUNITY. COME ON JU,” the WNBA star posted on social media, encouraging her brother for a bright journey ahead. Angel Reese, the No. 7th pick in the 2024 WNBA draft, has already become one of the top rebounders in the league, and now it’s time for her brother to make a promising career in basketball. He plays with strong defense and toughness, which makes him a good fit for the Summer League.
The Los Angeles Lakers Are Looking Beyond The Draft Picks
Julian Reese joins an A-list of undrafted players. The group included Villanova’s Eric Dixon, UNC’s RJ Davis, and Augustas Marciulionis, son of Hall of Famer Sarunas Marciulionis. Each of them brings something different to the table. And Reese adds muscle and interior presence. The area where Reese will need to improve is his shooting. Notably, he did not attempt a single three-pointer in his last three seasons at Maryland. For the modern game, this is something that is not usual.
Still, as Sporting News’ Billy Heyen said, “The Lakers are looking for size, though, so this will be a chance for Julian to show up at Summer League, play well, and potentially earn an invite to training camp and beyond.” With Summer League action set to begin soon, Reese has a chance to carve out his name. Whether he makes the main roster or lands a two-way contract, this opportunity highlights a significant step in his basketball journey.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
