In July 2026, Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello was criticized after a broadcast microphone picked up her referring to Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese as a “protected species” during a WNBA game. The comment came after Toronto player Nyara Sabally was injured on a play involving Reese and Sabally was called for a foul. Brondello’s phrase was widely interpreted by some viewers as racially insensitive or dehumanizing, especially because Reese is a Black woman and because the WNBA had already been navigating public discussion about race, player treatment, and league culture. Brondello, who is Australian, later explained that the phrase is commonly used in Australian sports to suggest that a player receives favorable treatment from officials. However, she apologized for the impact of her words and said her frustration had been with officiating rather than with Reese personally. The WNBA suspended Brondello for one game without pay, stating that coaches and personnel must uphold standards of professionalism and respect. Reese later said she appreciated the apology but also appreciated that the league had taken action.
Caldwell, B. (2026, July 18). WNBA coach apologizes to Angel Reese for calling her a “protected species” during game. TheGrio. https://thegrio.com/2026/07/18/angel-reese-sandy-brondello-apology-protected-species/
Feinberg, D. (2026, July 18). Toronto Tempo coach Sandy Brondello suspended 1 game after inappropriate comment. ABC News. https://abcnews.com/Sports/wireStory/toronto-tempo-coach-sandy-brondello-suspended-1-game-134883543
Thompson, J. (2026, July 18). WNBA suspends Tempo coach Sandy Brondello for “protected species” comment about Angel Reese. Fox News. https://www.foxnews.com/sports/wnba-suspends-tempo-coach-sandy-brondello-protected-species-comment-angel-reese
ABC News. (2026, July 20). WNBA star Angel Reese accepts Sandy Brondello’s apology over “protected species” comment. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-07-20/basketball-wnba-angel-reese-accepts-sandy-brondello-apology/106934868
