WNBA Issues One-Game Suspension to Sandy Brondello Following Inappropriate Remark Regarding Angel Reese

Sandy Brondello received a one-game suspension after referring to Reese as a ‘protected species’ during the Toronto Tempo’s matchup against the Atlanta Dream.

Published On 19 Jul 202619 Jul 2026

The WNBA has suspended Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello for one game following inappropriate comments made during Friday’s game against the Atlanta Dream.

“The WNBA expects all coaches and team personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect that are fundamental to our league,” the league stated in a formal announcement on Saturday.

As a result of the disciplinary action, Brondello will miss Monday’s scheduled game against the Las Vegas Aces.

The incident occurred during the Tempo’s 111-92 loss to the Dream. During a broadcast segment, Brondello was heard addressing officials after Toronto’s Nyara Sabally sustained an injury following contact with Angel Reese. Following the foul call against Sabally, Brondello was caught on audio referring to Reese as a “protected species.”

Brondello issued a public apology via social media on Saturday.

“Angel, I’m sorry,” Brondello stated. “Last night, in the emotion of the moment after Nyara’s injury, I used a phrase that I shouldn’t have used, and I take full responsibility for that. My frustration was directed at the officiating, but my words unfairly placed the focus on you.”

Reese responded on social media following the game, posting, “ARE WE SURPRISED?!” while tagging Brondello and including a clown emoji.

“I also understand that my words carried an impact beyond what I intended, particularly for Black women in our league, and I’m deeply sorry for that,” Brondello continued.

“I’ve spent my career competing with, coaching and learning from incredible Black women.”

The Australian coach, currently in her inaugural season with the expansion Tempo, added: “I regret that my words caused hurt to a community I respect so deeply. I have a lot of respect for you as both a player and a person, and I sincerely apologize to you, your teammates, and the Dream organization for my comment.”

The phrase “protected species” is a common idiom in Australian sports used to express frustration regarding perceived preferential officiating. However, in a United States context, the terminology can be interpreted as dehumanizing and potentially derogatory toward Black individuals.

Brondello has been a veteran head coach in the WNBA since 2014, having previously secured championships with the Phoenix Mercury and the New York Liberty.

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