Overview
- A hot microphone picked up Tempo coach Sandy Brondello saying "Angel, she's a protected species" during a late play in Toronto's 111-92 loss to the Atlanta Dream when Nyara Sabally was injured after contact with Angel Reese on Friday.
- Angel Reese publicly called out the remark on social media, and Brondello posted a direct apology saying she used a phrase she should not have and took full responsibility for her words.
- The WNBA announced a one-game suspension without pay for Brondello on Saturday, meaning she will miss the Tempo's next game under the league's disciplinary action.
- Coverage has noted that 'protected species' is Australian sports slang for a player who gets favorable calls but many viewed the phrasing as carrying racial overtones, a perception underscored by Reese's response.
- The incident will be discussed in a scheduled meeting between players and commissioner Cathy Engelbert, and it could sharpen league focus on officiating, player safety, and online harassment policies.