Wizards Newcomer Julian Reese Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Sister Angel Reese During 2nd Career NBA Game

Julian Reese wore his sister Angel Reese's signature Reebok sneakers to honor her journey and support during his second NBA game.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In only his second career game, Washington Wizards forward Julian Reese made a touching tribute to his sister Angel Reese, a WNBA star for the Chicago Sky, by wearing her signature Reebok AR1 sneakers. Angel was courtside, visibly emotional, as Julian delivered a composed, well-rounded performance, finishing with 9 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists despite the Wizards' 126-109 loss to the Orlando Magic.

Why it matters

The connection between Julian and Angel Reese runs deep, as they both grew up in Baltimore and attended the University of Maryland together. Julian's signing with the Wizards, a D.C.-area franchise, carried an especially personal weight for the entire family. Julian's decision to wear Angel's signature sneakers was a nod to how far her line has come and a heartfelt gesture to honor his sister's support throughout his journey to the NBA.

The details

When Julian Reese laced up for the Wizards' matchup against the Orlando Magic, he was wearing his sister Angel Reese's signature Reebok AR1 sneakers, the Diamond Dust colorway, the same pair he had worn in his very first NBA game. Angel, who plays for the Chicago Sky, was courtside, draped in a Wizards jersey bearing her brother's No. 15, visibly emotional throughout the night. During a sideline interview, Angel expressed how proud she was of Julian's journey and how happy she was to see him play in front of their family in the D.C. area.

  • Julian Reese wore Angel Reese's signature sneakers in his second NBA game on March 6, 2026.
  • Angel Reese's Reebok AR1 sneaker line launched in September 2025.

The players

Julian Reese

A 22-year-old forward for the Washington Wizards who is just starting his NBA career after going undrafted in 2025 and spending time in the G-League.

Angel Reese

Julian Reese's sister, a WNBA star for the Chicago Sky who has publicly championed her brother's journey to the NBA.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I was so emotional when I found out, I was crying so hard like I just hit the lottery. I was just so happy because my mom was able to raise me and my brother. We were able to go to Maryland and play in front of our family, but they have a good treat and I'm happy for D.C.”

— Angel Reese, WNBA player, Chicago Sky (profootballnetwork.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.