Brondello Suspended for Reese Comment

Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello will miss Monday night's game against the Las Vegas Aces as she serves a one-game suspension without pay. The WNBA issued the penalty for an "inappropriate" comment Brondello made about Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese following the Dream's 111-92 victory over the Tempo on Friday.

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Angel, she's a protected species!

During the game in Toronto, a foul was called on Tempo's Nyara Sabally against Reese after an offensive rebound. As the call was under review, Brondello was heard yelling at the referees. Microphones captured her saying, "Angel, she's a protected species!"

Brondello released a written apology on Saturday, taking full responsibility for her choice of words. "Angel, I’m sorry. 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," she stated. "My frustration was with the officiating, but my words unfairly put the focus on you."

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Angel, I’m sorry. 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 with the officiating, but my words unfairly put the focus on you.

She further acknowledged the broader impact of her comment, particularly for Black women in the league. "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. I’ve spent my career competing with, coaching and learning from incredible Black women. I regret that my words caused hurt to a community I respect so deeply," Brondello wrote. The WNBA stated that it "expects all coaches and team personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect that are fundamental to our league."

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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. I’ve spent my career competing with, coaching and learning from incredible Black women. I regret that my words caused hurt to a community I respect so deeply.