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Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello found herself in some hot water following a Friday night loss to the Atlanta Dream. During the game, Brondello made a controversial comment referencing Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese, after a collision with Tempo forward Nyara Sabally.
Brondello referred to Reese as a “protected species,” which many WNBA fans called out on social media. Reese also called out the remarks, which carry offensive undertones.
The Tempo coach issued an apology on Saturday afternoon, but is now facing punishment from the league.
MORE: Angel Reese calls out Tempo’s Sandy Brondello for offensive ‘species’ comment, gets apology
WNBA officials announced Saturday night that Brondello has been suspended for one game, and will miss Monday night’s showdown against the Las Vegas Aces.
Jul 8, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello directs her players during a time out against the Golden State Valkyries in the second half at Coca-Cola Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
“Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello has been suspended without pay for one game for an inappropriate comment she made regarding Angel Reese of the Atlanta Dream during the Tempo’s 111-92 loss to the Dream in Toronto. “Brondello will serve her suspension Monday when the Tempo host the Las Vegas Aces.
“The WNBA expects all coaches and team personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect that are fundamental to our league.”
MORE: WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert ripped for ducking Dan Patrick interview
The “protected species” comment is used as a derogatory term, especially when directed at Black people, in the United States. Brondello, however, is from Australia, where “protected species” is a sports slang term for someone who receives preferential treatment.
So while Brondello’s comment may not have directly had racial undertones, it’s the way that it was received and is a good learning lesson for everyone.
Jul 17, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello reacts to a play against the Atlanta Dream during the second half at Coca-Cola Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
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Brondello referred to Reese as a “protected species,” which many WNBA fans called out on social media. Reese also called out the remarks, which carry offensive undertones.
The Tempo coach issued an apology on Saturday afternoon, but is now facing punishment from the league.
MORE: Angel Reese calls out Tempo’s Sandy Brondello for offensive ‘species’ comment, gets apology
WNBA officials announced Saturday night that Brondello has been suspended for one game, and will miss Monday night’s showdown against the Las Vegas Aces.
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Jul 8, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello directs her players during a time out against the Golden State Valkyries in the second half at Coca-Cola Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
“Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello has been suspended without pay for one game for an inappropriate comment she made regarding Angel Reese of the Atlanta Dream during the Tempo’s 111-92 loss to the Dream in Toronto. “Brondello will serve her suspension Monday when the Tempo host the Las Vegas Aces.
“The WNBA expects all coaches and team personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect that are fundamental to our league.”
MORE: WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert ripped for ducking Dan Patrick interview
The “protected species” comment is used as a derogatory term, especially when directed at Black people, in the United States. Brondello, however, is from Australia, where “protected species” is a sports slang term for someone who receives preferential treatment.
So while Brondello’s comment may not have directly had racial undertones, it’s the way that it was received and is a good learning lesson for everyone.
You must be registered for see images attach
Jul 17, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello reacts to a play against the Atlanta Dream during the second half at Coca-Cola Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —
Continue reading...
