The WNBA is once again at the center of controversy following the suspension of Toronto Tempo coach Sandy Brondello. The league handed Brondello a one-game suspension after she was heard making a comment about Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese on a hot mic during the Tempo's 111-92 loss on Friday night.
Brondello's remark, "Angel, she's a protected species," came as she disagreed with a foul call awarded to Reese. Reese had drawn a foul while attempting a layup, despite making contact with Tempo player Nyara Sabally.
Brondello issued an apology on X, stating she used the phrase "in the emotion of the moment" and expressed regret for her words, particularly their potential impact on Black women in the league. She acknowledged her frustration was directed at the officiating but conceded her words unfairly focused on Reese. "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 wrote. "I regret that my words caused hurt to a community I respect so deeply."
Despite the apology, the WNBA proceeded with the suspension. This decision has drawn criticism from Temi Fagbenle, a former teammate of Caitlin Clark's in Indiana and a player for the Toronto Tempo. Fagbenle voiced her disapproval on Threads, calling the suspension "laughable."
"'Protected species' is a figure of speech and I see nothing suspension-worthy with what @brondellosandy said," Fagbenle posted. "'Species' is the unfortunate and touchy word of this well-known phrase especially in the US’ racially charged climate, but if she was saying it about CC (an appropriate comparison re popularity) there would be no outrage, now would there. Suspension is laughable."
Angel Reese responded to Brondello's comment on X, quoting a post that said, "Calling a Black woman a species..." and adding, "ARE WE SURPRISED?! @SBrondello" along with a clown emoji. After Brondello's apology, Reese told reporters, "I appreciate Sandy's apology, but I also appreciate the love and support that I've had for the last 48 hours." She added, "There is no place for discrimination or hate in this league from anyone, from fans to coaches to players."
South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley commended Brondello's apology as "a real apology" on X. In recent weeks, the WNBA has faced scrutiny over other incidents involving player conduct and comments. Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas reported receiving death threats and racial slurs after a play involving Caitlin Clark, and Las Vegas Aces star Chelsea Gray shared a racist message she received on Instagram following a collision with Clark.