Angel Reese Addresses Brondello Comment, Faces Suspension

Media Reaction After the Game

Reese took the podium ahead of Sunday’s matchup and publicly addressed the controversy that erupted the previous Friday. She thanked Sandy Brondello for the apology while also acknowledging the outpouring of support she received over the past two days. “I appreciate the love and support that I’ve had,” Reese noted, “and I’m grateful the league acted.” She emphasized that “there is no place for discrimination or hate in this league—from fans to coaches to players.” Reese concluded that the focus now is on moving forward and playing winning basketball.

The WNBA labeled Brondello’s on‑court remark—captured on microphone as “Angel, she’s a protected species!”—as an “inappropriate comment.” Fans have since highlighted that the phrase carries a distinct meaning in Australian sport, where it can describe a player who receives preferential treatment from officials. Despite the cultural nuance, Reese interpreted the comment as hostile, prompting the league to take disciplinary action.

Brondello issued a public apology on X, which was later reposted by the Tempo’s social media team. In the statement she admitted using an inappropriate phrase in the heat of the moment and took full responsibility. She also recognized the broader impact of her words, especially on Black women in the league, and expressed deep remorse for any hurt caused to the community she respects.

Game Details and Incident Timeline

The Dream and Tempo clashed on the previous Friday, with Atlanta securing a 111‑92 victory. Mid‑fourth quarter, Toronto’s Nyara Sabally drew a foul on Reese after an offensive rebound with 3:16 remaining. The Tempo challenged the call, asserting that Reese had been the one committing a hostile act by elbowing Sabally’s ribs. Sabally exited the game during a timeout to receive medical attention.

While the review was underway, Brondello’s expletive‑laden remark was captured on audio. The comment sparked immediate backlash and led the league to label it inappropriate. Brondello later apologized, and the WNBA responded by suspending her for one game, with the suspension set to begin on Monday.

Brondello’s Apology and Discipline

The full apology read: “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 continued, “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.” The coach concluded by regretting the hurt caused to a community she deeply respects and apologizing to Reese, her teammates, and the Dream organization.

The league’s decision to suspend Brondello for a single game reflects its zero‑tolerance stance on comments deemed discriminatory or inappropriate. The one‑game ban will be served on Monday, removing her from the bench for that contest.

Reese’s Season Statistics

• Games Played: 24
• Points Per Game: 15.7
• Rebounds Per Game: 11.8
• Assists Per Game: 2.5
• Steals Per Game: 1.7
• Minutes Per Game: 30.8

These numbers underscore Reese’s role as a dual threat on both ends of the floor, contributing substantially to the Dream’s offensive and defensive efforts this season.