Washington Wizards Secure Forward Julian Reese on Two-Way Contract
The Washington Wizards have officially announced the signing of rookie forward Julian Reese to a two-way contract, adding depth to their roster ahead of a crucial home game. The Wizards are set to host the Toronto Raptors at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night, looking to bounce back from two consecutive losses to the Atlanta Hawks.
Julian Reese's Journey to the NBA
Julian Reese, a 22-year-old from Baltimore, has been a consistent performer for the Raptors 905, the G League affiliate of the Toronto Raptors. This season, he appeared in 39 games, averaging 7.8 points and 7.0 rebounds in 17.2 minutes per game. Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 230 pounds, Reese showcased his versatility by finishing second in total rebounds and leading his team in both offensive and average field goal percentage.
Reese played collegiate basketball at the University of Maryland, located just outside Washington, D.C., for four seasons. In 134 games with the Terrapins, he averaged 11.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.0 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game, shooting 55.7% from the field. Despite going undrafted in 2025, he signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Toronto Raptors in October, paving his way to the G League.
Angel Reese's Heartfelt Support for Her Brother
The signing has drawn significant attention due to Julian's family ties. He is the younger brother of WNBA star Angel Reese, who plays for the Chicago Sky. Upon hearing the news, Angel took to social media to express her pride and support.
She wrote on X: "My baby brother Ugh I’m so proud of you! Your journey has never been easy & you’ve always stayed the course! Let’s go Juju! @Reese10Julian." Angel, who recently rejoined Unrivaled to play for the Rose BC squad, has been vocal about her admiration for Julian's perseverance and hard work.
Potential NBA Debut Against Former Team
With the Wizards' two-way contract, Julian Reese could be in uniform as early as Tuesday's game in Orlando, according to reports from Josh Robbins of The Athletic. However, there is a strong possibility he might make his NBA debut on Saturday night against the Toronto Raptors, his previous parent organization.
Two-way contracts allow teams to keep a player active with the NBA club for up to 50 games. Given that the Wizards have only 24 games remaining this season, Reese is expected to play a significant role in the final stretch. His addition comes at a critical time as the team aims to improve its performance and finish the season on a high note.
Impact on the Wizards' Roster and Future Prospects
The signing of Julian Reese represents a strategic move by the Washington Wizards to bolster their frontcourt. His experience in the G League, combined with his collegiate success at Maryland, makes him a valuable asset. Reese's ability to contribute in rebounding and scoring could provide the Wizards with much-needed energy and depth.
As the Wizards prepare to face the Raptors, all eyes will be on whether Reese gets his chance to shine in the NBA. His story of resilience, supported by his sister's unwavering encouragement, adds a compelling narrative to the game. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this new chapter unfolds for the Reese family and the Washington Wizards.
