On Saturday night, the Washington Wizards will host the Toronto Raptors at their home arena in Washington, D.C. Ahead of this matchup, the Wizards announced the signing of forward Julian Reese to a two-way contract, aiming to strengthen their team during the current NBA season.
Julian Reese, standing 6-foot-9 and weighing 230 pounds, has played 39 games this season with the Raptors 905, the NBA G League affiliate of Toronto. He has posted averages of 7.8 points and 7.0 rebounds across 17.2 minutes per game, showcasing promising potential for the Wizards’ roster.
The Background of Julian Reese and His Basketball Journey
Julian Reese developed his basketball talents at the University of Maryland, where he participated in 134 games, averaging 11.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.0 assist, and 1.3 blocks per contest. During his collegiate career, he demonstrated efficient shooting, hitting 55.7% from the field and 29.2% from beyond the arc.
Reese hails from Baltimore’s St. Frances Academy and is notably the younger brother of WNBA star Angel Reese. His connection to Angel brings additional attention to his signing, reflecting an athletic family legacy.
“The Wizards’ expectation is that Julian Reese, whose two-way contract became official today, could be in uniform as early as Tuesday’s game in Orlando. Reese, a 6-foot-9 big, attended Baltimore’s St. Frances Academy and the University of Maryland & is the brother of Angel Reese.” – Josh Robbins, The Athletic
Angel Reese shared her pride for her brother on social media, expressing her support and admiration for his perseverance throughout his journey into professional basketball.
“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 Reese, WNBA Player
Current Challenges and Outlook for the Washington Wizards
The Wizards have faced a difficult run this season, holding a 16-42 record and sitting 13th in the Eastern Conference. Most recently, they lost two consecutive games to the Atlanta Hawks on the road, adding pressure to a squad undergoing transition.
Despite acquiring former All-Star talents Trae Young and Anthony Davis in recent trade moves, both players have yet to debut for the Wizards, contributing to uncertainties about the team’s immediate future performance.
This Saturday’s game against the fifth-seeded Toronto Raptors, who have a 34-25 record and are on a two-game losing streak, presents an important opportunity for the Wizards to gain momentum. Following that, they will prepare to host the Houston Rockets and their star Kevin Durant on Monday.
Anticipated Impact of Julian Reese on the Team’s Prospects
Julian Reese’s signing is an effort by the Wizards to inject fresh energy and depth into their lineup. Given his size, rebounding ability, and steady scoring, Reese could provide valuable minutes as the team seeks to improve its standing in a competitive Eastern Conference.
The Wizards’ management and fans alike are hopeful that Reese’s addition will translate into positive contributions on the court, especially as the franchise works to integrate new talent and overcome the challenges of a rebuilding season.
With Reese potentially available to play as soon as their upcoming game in Orlando, observers will closely watch how he adapts to the NBA stage and supports Washington’s efforts to end their losing streak.
The Washington Wizards announced today they have signed forward Julian Reese to a two-way contract.
Reese (6-9, 230) has appeared in 39 games for the G League’s Raptors 905 this season, averaging 7.8 points and 7.0 rebounds in 17.2 minutes per game.
— Wizards PR (@WizPRStats) February 28, 2026
The Wizards' expectation is that Julian Reese, whose two-way contract became official today, could be in uniform as early as Tuesday's game in Orlando. Reese, a 6-foot-9 big, attended Baltimore's St. Frances Academy and the University of Maryland & is the brother of Angel Reese.
— Josh Robbins (@JoshuaBRobbins) February 28, 2026
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 https://t.co/6b6OloTHeo
— Angel Reese (@Reese10Angel) February 28, 2026
