Tempo coach Sandy Brondello suspended by WNBA for Angel Reese comment
USA Today • • sports
Key Points:
- Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello was suspended for one game without pay by the WNBA for making an inappropriate comment about Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese during a game on July 14.
- The comment occurred after a physical play that injured Tempo player Nyara Sabally, with Brondello referring to Reese as a "protected species," which was widely criticized as racially insensitive.
- Brondello issued a public apology on social media, acknowledging the impact of her words, especially on Black women in the league, and expressed regret for the hurt caused.
- The WNBA emphasized the importance of professionalism and respect, enforcing the suspension for Brondello's conduct; she will miss the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Aces.
- Brondello has a distinguished coaching career, including leading the New York Liberty to a WNBA title in 2024 and coaching the Australian national team to a bronze medal at the 2024 Olympics.
