In College Park, Maryland, Julian Reese stands out as a dedicated athlete who has remained committed to the Maryland Terrapins throughout his collegiate career, facing both challenges and triumphs. In his final home game, the crowd demonstrated its admiration for the senior player.
Reese delivered an impressive performance with 19 points and 11 rebounds as the 13th-ranked Terrapins concluded their regular season with a 74-61 win over Northwestern on Saturday. Maryland coach Kevin Willard expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I was just happy that he was able to get the ovation that he got. And I was really happy that he played the way he played, because if he didn’t play as physical as he played, we would have struggled to win this game.”
Reese was among the seniors celebrated before the game, a group comprised of a second-year transfer, two first-year transfers, a second-year walk-on, and Reese himself. Reflecting on the experience, Reese shared, “I was really grateful in that moment. Just really grateful that the fans came out to see me. A lot of people had my number on.”
During his time with the Terrapins, Reese encountered various challenges that could have led him elsewhere. He experienced a coaching change as a freshman and saw the team make the NCAA Tournament under Willard, followed by a 16-17 record in the 2023-24 season. Nevertheless, Reese’s return this season strengthened the team, providing another formidable presence alongside standout freshman Derik Queen. Standing at 6-foot-9, Reese, who is the brother of WNBA star Angel Reese, is averaging 13.2 points and 9.3 rebounds for the 2024-25 season.
One notable improvement in Reese’s game is his precision from the free throw line, progressing to a 74% shooter from previous seasons below 60%. This was vital on Saturday as he drew seven fouls and successfully made 11 of 13 free throws.
Northwestern coach Chris Collins remarked on Reese’s evolution, saying, “Early in his career, you could get under (Reese’s) skin a little bit. It threw him off his game. He’d get in foul trouble. And now to see him as a senior, to see his poise, to see his command. He’s playing like a senior. … He’s leading that group. It’s fun to see. That’s what you want college basketball to be about.”
