Maryland forward Julian Reese has positioned himself as a compelling prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft. The 6’9″, 230-pound senior has drawn interest from multiple teams seeking a versatile big man. Reese’s stock rose following a stellar NCAA Tournament performance, particularly in Maryland’s dramatic 72-71 victory over Colorado State in the second round.
His 11-rebound effort in that game pushed his career total past 1,000, making him just the second player in program history—alongside Len Elmore (1,053 rebounds from 1971-74)—to reach that milestone.
Maryland’s Julian Reese: Projected NBA Draft Landing Spots in 2025
Maryland forward Julian Reese is one of the noteworthy draft prospects in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft. The 6’9″, 230-pound senior excels at offensive rebounds while offering robust defensive capabilities through his physicality, so multiple organizations view him as a valuable addition at forward.
Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers could benefit from additional frontcourt depth behind Joel Embiid, particularly given the superstar’s injury history. Reese’s rebounding and defensive abilities make him a solid rotational option.
San Antonio Spurs
San Antonio’s emphasis on player development would provide Reese with an ideal environment to refine his game. Pairing him alongside Victor Wembanyama could strengthen the Spurs’ defensive core.
Miami Heat
Miami is an excellent destination for Reese due to its proven track record of enhancing player talent. His defensive abilities and rebounding skills perfectly suit the Heat’s physical, high-energy system. Miami’s coaching team might help Reese develop his offensive skills despite his limited shooting capabilities.
New Orleans Pelicans
Given Zion Williamson’s injury history, the Pelicans may look to reinforce their frontcourt. Reese’s physical style and rebounding ability would provide much-needed depth. However, his offensive limitations may restrict him to a backup role at power forward or center.
Sacramento Kings
The Kings are aiming to solidify their bench as they continue their playoff push. Reese’s energy and defensive presence make him a strong candidate for Sacramento’s second unit, particularly given their fast-paced style of play.
Reese, a four-star recruit out of St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, was Maryland’s highest-rated signee in the Class of 2021. Initially recruited by Mark Turgeon and later developed under Danny Manning, Reese played a key role for the Terrapins.
In high school, he led his team to a 53-5 record over two seasons, including a Baltimore Catholic League championship appearance in his COVID-shortened senior year.
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“He’s very young for his class and is a player with tremendous upside,” Turgeon said when Reese signed in 2020. “He can score around the basket and beyond the 3-point line. He can handle and pass the ball. He’s a tremendous defender and shot blocker.”
Reese’s signing class also included four-star recruit Ike Cornish, his former AAU teammate. Cornish later transferred to Nicholls State after his redshirt freshman season.
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