The Washington Wizards matchup against the Utah Jazz on Thursday night had plenty of attention from fans and players across the league.
Not only because the matchup was a key battle in the sweepstakes for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft between two tanking teams, but because Trae Young's debut was the official start to a new era of D.C. basketball, that many have proven to be excited about, even Maryland native and WNBA star Angel Reese.
However, in the midst of Young's debut on Thursday, the star guard's first game in Wizards' threads may have been overshadowed by another Reese, but considering the team's desire to find young talent, it should be considered a good thing.
Julian Reese shines in Wizards battle against Utah
Julian Reese, the younger brother of Angel Reese, signed a two-way deal with the Wizards last week proving to be the team's latest homegrown addition to the roster.
Since joining the team, the former Maryland Terrapin has immediately carved out a sizable role, starting in each of his first three games in Washington.
Thursday, Reese proved that not only can he be a quality addition to the team's frontcourt, but he showed that he's willing to scrap for everything, especially when it comes to rebounds.
In his start in the team's 122-112 loss to the Jazz, the newest forward absolutely showed out finishing with 18 points, 20 rebounds and two assists, while shooting 5-for-7 from field goal range.
The monster stat line from Reese only adds to the excitement for what he's already shown in his first couple games in D.C.
And if he continues to impress at the rate he has, this may not be the start to his journey in the DMV.
Julian Reese is making the case for more than a two-way contract
As mentioned above, Reese recently signed a two-way deal with the Wizards after going undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft.
The forward clearly has a chip on his shoulder, and so far, that chip has allowed him to put together hustle-led performances that have plenty of people talking about what he can bring to the team's frontcourt.
Washington's front office has proven to reward two-way standouts, and if Reese continues playing at this level, a standard contract could be a real possibility.
Whether that's this season or in the offseason is unknown.
Regardless, Washington has found something in the Maryland native and they can't let him leave the organization anytime soon.