Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello has faced significant repercussions after being recorded on a hot mic making what is described as an "inappropriate comment" regarding Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese. The incident unfolded during a game where Tempo center Nyara Sabally sustained an injury, prompting Brondello to express her frustration to the referees.
In a moment captured by the microphone, Brondello remarked, "Angel, she's a protected species." This comment did not go unnoticed and quickly attracted the attention of Reese, who took to social media platform X to respond. She used a clown emoji in a post, indirectly referencing Brondello and her comment.
The day following the incident, Brondello issued a public apology for her choice of words. In her statement on X, she acknowledged her error, saying, "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." Brondello clarified that her frustration was primarily directed towards the officiating, but acknowledged that her words unjustly shifted focus onto Reese.
Brondello further expressed her understanding of the broader implications of her comment, stating, "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." Throughout her career, Brondello has emphasized her respect for the many Black women she has coached and learned from, reflecting on her desire to support that community.
During the game, Sabally experienced a troubling collision under the basket with Reese with only 3:16 left in the game. Following the incident, she was visibly shaken and required assistance to leave the court. Brondello remarked post-game, “That was a hard hit. She’s not feeling great at the moment. She hurt her ribs, so we don’t know what that is at the moment. Hopefully, it’s not too serious.”
In response to Brondello's remark about Reese, the WNBA released a statement confirming that she would be suspended without pay for one game due to the inappropriate nature of her comment. A spokesperson for the league emphasized, “The WNBA expects all coaches and team personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect that are fundamental to our league.”
Brondello's suspension will take effect during the upcoming game on Monday, when the Tempo are set to host the Las Vegas Aces. The league’s decisive action underscores its commitment to maintaining a respectful and professional environment for all players and personnel.
This incident has spurred conversation surrounding professionalism and accountability in sports, particularly in relation to how coaches and players interact with each other and the media. The impact of Brondello's comments showcases the sensitivity surrounding race and representation within professional sports.
