Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello posted an apology on social media after appearing to refer to Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese as a "protected species" during Friday's game.
"Angel, I'm sorry. Last night, in the emotion of the moment after Nyara (Sabally)'s injury, I used a phrase that I shouldn't have used, and I take full responsibility for that," Brondello wrote Saturday on X.
The broadcast picked up Brondello's remark as she pleaded to the referees following a collision between Reese and Tempo forward Sabally late in the Dream's 111-92 victory. Sabally was called for a foul and injured on the play, prompting Brondello to come to her defense.
"My frustration was with the officiating, but my words unfairly put the focus on you," Brondello added.
Following the game, Reese responded to Brondello's remark in a post on X.
ARE WE SURPRISED?! @SBrondello 🤡 https://t.co/moNbYdDYo3
— Angel Reese (@Reese10Angel) July 18, 2026
In making the comment, Brondello, who is Australian, seemingly referenced Australian slang that, in sporting terms, refers to a player who receives preferential treatment from the match officials.
"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 added. "I've spent my career competing with, coaching, and learning from incredible Black women.
"I regret that my words caused hurt to a community I respect so deeply. I have a lot of respect for you as both a player and a person, and I sincerely apologize to you, your teammates, and the Dream organization for my comment."
The WNBA season has been marred by several incidents of racism directed toward players on social media. Phoenix Mercury star Alyssa Thomas received death threats and racial slurs following a hard foul on Caitlin Clark in June. Las Vegas Aces guard Chelsea Gray also recently became a target of a racial slur via social media.
Brondello spoke positively of Reese during Friday's postgame press conference, praising the three-time All-Star for her contributions to the Dream.
"Angel is just so crafty. Her ability to anticipate where the ball's coming in and her positioning to get offensive rebounds and putbacks is elite," Brondello told reporters, including WNBA insider Savanna Hamilton. "That's why she's so good at what she does. I think she's improved her moves off the dribble. They put her in face-ups, too, and she's attacking it."
