The WNBA has suspended Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello without pay for one game following her use of the term "protected species" while referring to Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese during a game on Friday, July 18, 2026.

During the Atlanta Dream's 111-92 victory over Toronto, Toronto's Nyara Sabally fouled Reese after an offensive rebound. As the call was being reviewed, Brondello was heard on a hot mic yelling at the referees, saying, "Angel, she's a protected species!"

The league announced on Saturday evening that Brondello will miss the Tempo's next game against the Las Vegas Aces. In a statement, the WNBA said, "The WNBA expects all coaches and team personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect that are fundamental to our league."

Brondello issued an apology, stating, "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. My frustration was with the officiating, but my words unfairly put the focus on you."

She further added, "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. I've spent my career competing with, coaching and learning from incredible Black women."

Sources