When the Washington Wizards signed Julian Reese to a two-way contract late last week, the move brought a familiar basketball name back to the DMV, and quickly created an opportunity for the former Maryland Terrapins men’s basketball forward.
Reese, who is also the younger brother of Angel Reese, spent four seasons at Maryland developing a reputation as one of the program’s most reliable rebounders and interior defenders. After going undrafted, he continued working toward an NBA opportunity through the G League, where his physical play and activity around the rim helped earn him another look at the professional level.
That opportunity came quickly once he arrived in Washington.
Julian Reese made his NBA debut just days after signing, starting at center against the Houston Rockets as the Wizards dealt with injuries in the frontcourt. In his first appearance, Reese finished with two points, four rebounds and three steals in nearly 28 minutes, showing the defensive effort and rebounding presence that defined his college career.
The quick transition from signing to playing time reflects the reality of Washington’s rebuilding season. With the team continuing to evaluate young players and developmental prospects, opportunities have opened for players like Reese to gain valuable NBA experience.
In his second appearance with the Wizards, Julian Reese delivered a stronger offensive showing in a matchup against the Orlando Magic. He finished with nine points, eight rebounds and three assists while logging more than 30 minutes on the floor, providing energy and physicality inside.
“I think I said it last night… super solid. He’s just learning our system, and he’s done really well with that. Give the coaches credit and him for studying that stuff,” Keefe said after the 109-126 loss to the Orlando Magic. “But you know, we can run our offense through him. You can see his passing ability. He’s fit, he’s big, he’s physical, he’s a good rebounder. I think he’s given us some good minutes here.”
The moment carried added meaning off the court as well.
Angel Reese was in attendance to support her younger brother during the Orlando game. The siblings, both products of Baltimore’s basketball scene, have followed parallel paths through the sport, rising from local prominence to national recognition at the collegiate level before reaching the professional stage.
“I’m really excited for DMV hoops… D.C. is back!” 🔥@meghanmcpeak links up with @Reese10Angel to break down little brother @Reese10Julian’s game and what’s next for the @WashWizards — from their young core to the latest additions!#ForTheDistrict pic.twitter.com/RbzfLIm3TM
— Monumental Sports Network (@MonSportsNet) March 4, 2026
While Angel Reese became one of the most recognizable stars in women’s basketball during her time at LSU, Julian Reese quietly built his own reputation at Maryland through consistency, effort and interior toughness.
That foundation helped earn him a chance with Washington.
Two-way contracts allow NBA teams to move players between the NBA roster and their G League affiliate while continuing to develop their games. For players like Reese, they often represent the first step toward establishing a long-term role at the professional level.
For the Wizards, the opportunity to evaluate Reese comes during a season focused on development and roster experimentation. For Reese, the chance to contribute at the NBA level, especially so close to the region where his basketball journey began, represents a significant milestone. This move also pairs him with fellow Baltimore natives Bub Carrington and Cam Whitmore.
And early in his Wizards tenure, that opportunity has already arrived sooner than expected.