**WNBA Coach Sandy Brondello Suspended for Inappropriate Comment**
Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello has been suspended for one game by the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) following an inappropriate comment made during a recent game against the Atlanta Dream. The incident occurred during the Tempo's 111-92 loss on Friday, July 19, 2026.
The league announced the suspension on Saturday, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and respect among coaches and team personnel. "The WNBA expects all coaches and team personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect that are fundamental to our league," the statement read.
Brondello will miss the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Aces due to the suspension. The controversy arose when she was heard addressing officials after Toronto player Nyara Sabally fell to the court following a collision with Angel Reese. Sabally was called for a foul, and Brondello was recorded saying that Reese was a "protected species," a phrase commonly used in Australian sports to express frustration over perceived biased officiating.
In the wake of the incident, Brondello issued an apology via social media. "Angel, I’m sorry," she wrote. "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."
Reese responded to the comment on social media, posting, "ARE WE SURPRISED?!" and tagging Brondello's account, accompanied by a clown face emoji. The exchange highlights the sensitivity surrounding language and its implications, particularly regarding race.
Brondello acknowledged the impact of her words, particularly on Black women in the league. "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," she stated. "I’ve spent my career competing with, coaching, and learning from incredible Black women."
In her apology, Brondello expressed her respect for Reese as both a player and a person, and she extended her regrets to Reese, her teammates, and the Dream organization for any hurt her comments may have caused.
Brondello, an Australian native, is in her first season with the expansion team, Toronto Tempo. She has a notable coaching history in the WNBA, having previously led teams like the Phoenix Mercury and New York Liberty to championship titles since her coaching debut in 2014.
The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions surrounding language, race, and the responsibilities of public figures in sports. As the WNBA continues to promote inclusivity and respect within the league, Brondello's suspension underscores the importance of accountability among coaches and players alike.