Former Maryland basketball big Julian Reese shines at PIT Invitational Tournament as NBA Draft hopeful

Maryland men’s basketball freshman Derik Queen will look to become the sixth Terp in the NBA when the 2025 NBA Draft kicks off on June 25, but he isn’t the only one looking to latch onto the pros as former center Julian Reese shifts his attention to the next phase of his career.

That included a run at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament this past weekend as Reese nearly averaged a double-double, posting 13.3 points and 10.6 rebounds across three games with a 15-10 performance on Saturday.

“I’m just grateful to be here. the more I learn, the more grateful I get just playing in front of all these coaches, getting a second chance after seeing my season, getting a little extra chance to play some five,” Reese said following the weekend.

Reese also shot nearly 45% from the field and over 83% from the free throw line, but it was enough to turn heads as one of the best prospects in attendance as he looks to join Jimmy Butler Jeremy Lin, Dennis Rodman, Scottie Pippen and John Stockton as other P.I.T. alums who went on to shine in the NBA.

“I’m trying to extend my range a little bit, play more on the perimeter, just work on that in the offseason,” Reese added.

Reese becomes the third Terp in two years to play in the event after both Donta Scott and Jahmir Young were invited in 2024.

“This whole draft process is exciting, meeting the new people, learning the new things I’ve got to add to my game and I transition to the pros,” Reese said.

In addition to being one of 13 players named to the All-Tournament Team, Reese was also named one of the best prospects during the tournament run.

“Julian Reese also turned heads at PIT, Angel Reese’s brother put together some strong performances as a switchable big. Reese, at 6’10 with a 7’1 wingspan displayed the ability to guard multiple positions and be a weakside rim protector. He can contribute as a low-usage scorer and solid rebounder that gets in position well. His work on the glass and rim running stood out, as he made a noticeable impact on both ends of the floor. He might be the biggest five but he sets solid screens that his wide frame makes defenders have switch or go over/under. Reese’s versatility as a non-shooting switch big who knows how to vertically space the floor, doesn’t do too much and defensive upside make him one of the more intriguing bigs at PIT, and he’s expected to be on NBA radars moving forward.”

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