The Los Angeles Lakers didn’t have a first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, but that didn’t stop them from moving quickly to strengthen their roster. After selecting Adou Thiero (Arkansas) with the 36th overall pick, the Lakers front office acted swiftly and aggressively to secure young, undrafted talent.
Rob Pelinka and his staff signed Villanova center Eric Dixon to a two-way deal. Meanwhile, RJ Davis (UNC), Arthur Kaluma (Texas), and Augustas Marciulionis (Saint Mary’s) joined the team under Exhibit 10 contracts-deals designed to give players a chance to develop in the G League or prove themselves during the NBA Summer League.
But one of the most talked-about additions wasn’t a draft sleeper or a hidden gem-it was a familiar name with growing weight in the basketball world: Julian Reese, the younger brother of WNBA superstarAngel Reese, will also suit up for the Lakers during Summer League action.
Julian Reese brings physicality and defensive presence
Julian Reese joins the Purple and Gold after four productive seasons at Maryland, where he averaged 11.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. Standing at 6-foot-9 with a strong, athletic frame, Reese made a name for himself with his energy on the glass, ability to run the floor, and defensive intensity.
Despite going undrafted, his profile fits the modern NBA mold: a big man who can rebound, protect the rim, and bring hustle from the jump. His Summer League contract with the Lakers in Las Vegas offers him a major platform to prove he belongs in the league.
Angel Reese didn’t hold back her excitement
The signing didn’t go unnoticed by the Reese family-especially not by Angel, now a rising star with the Chicago Sky and one of the most influential voices in women’s basketball.
Angel immediately reacted on social media, sharing the official announcement from ADS Sports Management-Julian’s agency-via Instagram stories. She added a short but powerful message:
“OPPORTUNITY. LET’S GO!”
A consistent supporter of her brother’s career, Angel has been his number-one fan from day one. Their mother also joined the celebration, reposting the announcement with the hashtag: #NBASummerLeague.
The power of the Reese name
The Reese name already commands attention in the WNBA-and now, potentially, in the NBA. Angel continues to shine in her rookie season with Chicago, and now Julian has a chance to carve out his own path in the pros.
With family support, NCAA credentials, and a shot to impress with the Lakers, the door is wide open for Julian Reese to take the next step toward his NBA dream.
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