Angel Reese Expresses Gratitude After WNBA Suspends Toronto Tempo Coach Sandy Brondello

Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese praised the WNBA's decision to suspend Toronto Tempo coach Sandy Brondello one game for calling her a "protected species" during Friday's matchup between the two teams. Brondello's comment, made from the sideline after a disputed foul call in the fourth quarter, prompted immediate league action and a public apology from the coach.

The incident occurred during the fourth quarter of Friday's game when Toronto forward Nyara Sabally was called for a defensive foul while battling Reese for position. As medical staff attended to the injured Sabally, Brondello voiced frustration toward official Toni Patillo, stating that Reese was a "protected species." The phrase typically refers to a player receiving favorable treatment from referees—a common expression in Australian sports contexts, where Brondello maintains coaching responsibilities with the Australian women's national team.

Reese responded immediately on social media, sharing a post about Brondello's comment with a critical response. The WNBA announced the one-game suspension on Saturday, stating that "all coaches and team personnel" must maintain the highest standards of professionalism and respect. On Saturday morning, Brondello issued a formal apology, acknowledging that her words "carried an impact beyond what I intended, particularly for Black women in our league" and expressed deep regret for the hurt caused.

During a postgame interview, Reese addressed the situation for the first time, saying she was "grateful" for the league's response. "There is no place for discrimination or hate in this league from anyone, from fans to coaches to players," she stated, adding that she appreciated both Brondello's apology and the support she received over the preceding 48 hours. Reese emphasized her desire to move forward and continue the WNBA's positive trajectory.

The suspension reflects broader concerns within the WNBA regarding player safety and professional conduct. The incident coincides with recent reports of harassment directed at league players, including Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray, who posted screenshots of a derogatory message containing a racial slur sent by a fan—an individual subsequently terminated from their employment at Hilton Grand Vacations.