Runs In The Family: Julian Reese Makes NBA History With 20-Rebound Game Against Utah Jazz

Julian Reese delivered a standout performance during the Washington Wizards' recent matchup against the Utah Jazz.

In only his third NBA game, Julian, who originally signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Toronto Raptors, had his way on the glass, recording 20 rebounds and becoming only the third player in 40 years to record that stat in their first five appearances.

Julian's showing against the Jazz has earned the 6'9" rookie much praise. Fans on social media also noted the striking similarities between the Maryland native’s playing style and that of his sister, Chicago Sky star Angel Reese.

Julian made his official NBA debut on March 2, 2026, and in just three games, the University of Maryland alum has shown his dominance on the hardwood.

Any lingering doubts about Julian's place in the league were effectively erased by his dominant showing against the Jazz.

In 28 minutes of action, Julian racked up 18 points, 20 rebounds, and 3 assists. Of those 20 rebounds, 10 were offensive rebounds, making his feat even more impressive by ultimately providing extra shot attempts for his teammates.

Another reason Julian's 20-rebound game made headlines is that he's just the third player to record that stat in their first five games in the last 40 years.

Julian joins an exclusive club that includes Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal, who recorded 21 rebounds in 2004, and Tim Duncan, who grabbed 22 in 1997.

And the exciting stats don't stop there. Julian also finds himself in elite company following his massive night on the boards. According to @trendyhoops on X, the last rookie—NBA or WNBA—to accomplish such a feat is his sister, Angel, who had 19 points and 20 rebounds against the Phoenix Mercury in 2024.

"That's elite company to be in," a user wrote online about Julian's gameplay. "20 boards is serious work."

Of course, Angel's impressive rebounding ability has been a topic of conversation since she was a standout player at LSU. However, the question remains: Does the Bayou Barbie offer her brother specific guidance before he hits the hardwood?

"She hits me up before and after every game [to] tell me what I need to do," he told reporters. "Watches the game, tries to text me at halftime."

While Julian joked that he occasionally has to ask for space, he admitted that having her unwavering support is a major factor in his success.

"It's just great having a sister like that," he said. "That's always on me and just trying to see the best for her brother, especially while she's busy doing stuff that she's doing. Love her to death."

After signing a two-way deal with the Wizards on February 28, 2026, Julian wasted no time, making his NBA debut only 48 hours later. According to The Blast, Angel, who's preparing to make her Team USA debut later this year, sang her brother's praises, adding that he'll bring "passion" and hard work to the Wizards' squad.

She later opened up about the overwhelming emotions she felt when she realized her brother had officially made it to the pros. "I'm really happy for him," she said, "I was so emotional when I found out, I was crying so hard like I just hit the lottery."

Angel shared a similar message on her X account, writing, "My baby brother. Ugh I’m so proud of you! Your journey has never been easy [and] you’ve always stayed the course! Let’s go Juju!!"

The basketball world was quick to react to Julian’s breakout performance against Utah.

"Ngl wtf he doing w 20 rebounds that’s OD," someone wrote on Instagram.

"That's so dope to have both kids as pros," another shared.

"Y’all trippn 20 boards is hard in basketball but in the NBA ???? Ain’t no way he don’t earn his spot 18 with 20 is a great number to have for a undrafted rookie!" a third posted.

WNBA legend Lisa Leslie wrote, "Family first!"