Wizards' Julian Reese credits sister Angel for breakout game

Rookie big man discusses the constant support and guidance from his WNBA star sister after a 20-rebound performance.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In just his third NBA game, Washington Wizards rookie Julian Reese delivered a standout performance, scoring 18 points and grabbing 20 rebounds in a loss to the Utah Jazz. After the game, Reese opened up about the influential role his sister Angel Reese, a rising WNBA star, has played in his early career, revealing that she closely follows his progress and provides constant support and advice.

Why it matters

The Reese siblings' close relationship and Angel's active involvement in Julian's development highlights the importance of family support for young athletes transitioning to the professional ranks. Julian's breakout game also suggests the Wizards may have found a promising young big man to build around.

The details

Julian Reese, the Wizards' rookie forward, put up an impressive stat line of 18 points, 20 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal in 38 minutes of play against the Utah Jazz. Despite the Wizards' 122-112 loss, Reese's energy and effort stood out, as he chased down loose balls and battled inside the paint throughout the game.

  • Julian Reese's breakout performance came on March 6, 2026, in just his third NBA game.
  • The Wizards' loss to the Jazz occurred on the same night, March 6, 2026.

The players

Julian Reese

A rookie forward for the Washington Wizards who had a standout 20-rebound game against the Utah Jazz.

Angel Reese

Julian Reese's sister, who is a rising star in the WNBA and provides constant support and guidance to her brother as he navigates his early NBA career.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“She hits me up before and after every game just telling me what I need to do. Watches the game, tries to text me at halftime...sometimes I got to get her off me a little bit just try to tell her let me do what I do.”

— Julian Reese, Wizards Rookie (ClutchPoints)

What’s next

The Wizards will look to build on Julian Reese's breakout performance as they continue their season, with the team and fans eager to see if this was just a one-time occurrence or the start of the young player's rise.

The takeaway

The close relationship between Julian and Angel Reese highlights the importance of family support for young athletes transitioning to the professional ranks. Julian's breakout game suggests the Wizards may have found a promising young big man to build around, with his sister's constant guidance playing a key role in his early development.