Angel Reese Thanks WNBA After Sandy Brondello Suspension

Reese Thanks League and Coach

Angel Reese issued a statement thanking the WNBA and Toronto Tempo coach Sandy Brondello for the action taken after Brondello’s comment. She said she appreciated the apology and the outpouring of support she received over the previous 48 hours. “There is no place for discrimination or hate in this league from anyone,” Reese added, emphasizing the league’s positive direction.

Reese credited the league’s response, noting that the suspension of Brondello was an appropriate step. She expressed gratitude that the situation could be put behind them so the focus could return to playing basketball. The forward also praised the community’s love and support during a difficult week.

Brondello’s Apology and Suspension

Sandy Brondello apologized on Saturday morning for calling Reese a “protected species” during Friday’s game. The WNBA responded by suspending Brondello without pay for an “inappropriate comment.” Brondello later explained that the phrase is common in Australian sports, used to describe athletes who receive favorable calls from officials. She added that the remark was emotional and not intended to be personal.

Brondello said she realized the comment could be interpreted differently in the United States, where awareness of racism is heightened. The coach, who has spent 27 years in the league, stressed that she is not racist and has learned from the Black players she has coached. She offered to speak with Reese when the player is ready.

The suspension will begin Monday, when the Tempo host the Las Vegas Aces. Tempo associate head coach and Brondello’s husband, Olaf Lange, will fill in as head coach during her absence.

Injury and Game Details

During Friday’s contest, Tempo forward Nyara Sabally was assessed a defensive foul on Reese, then injured while receiving medical attention. It was in that moment that Brondello made the controversial remark to referee Toni Patillo. Reese responded on X with a clown emoji and the caption “Are we surprised?!” tagging Brondello’s account.

Reese scored eight points and pulled down five rebounds for Atlanta in Sunday’s 93‑91 win over the Chicago Sky. She shot 3‑of‑13 from the floor and left the game in the third quarter with a left‑leg injury, not returning. The Dream’s victory was secured behind strong defensive play and contributions from other contributors.

Background on the Phrase

The term “protected species” is a colloquialism used in Australian sports to describe players who consistently receive favorable officiating. Brondello, an Australian native, has coached the Opals since 2017 and brings that cultural context into the WNBA. Her two championships with the Tempo highlight a coaching career marked by success and a long‑standing presence in women’s basketball.

Key Takeaways

• Angel Reese thanked the WNBA and Sandy Brondello for the disciplinary action taken after the “protected species” comment.
• Brondello apologized, citing cultural differences, and accepted a paid suspension beginning Monday.
• Nyara Sabally’s injury on Friday prompted the controversial remark by Brondello to referee Toni Patillo.
• Reese posted on X with a clown emoji, tagging Brondello.
• Reese had eight points, five rebounds, and a left‑leg injury in Sunday’s win over the Chicago Sky.