Former Australian tennis player and Serena Williams’ coach Rennae Stubbs came to the defense of Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello following her one-game suspension from the WNBA. She was suspended because of her “inappropriate” comments against Angel Reese during the game against the Atlanta Dream.
The WNBA announced the punishment on Saturday, one day after a broadcast caught Brondello saying Reese was a “protected species” after Tempo forward Nyara Sabally was called for a foul despite appearing to be injured during a collision with the Dream forward.
However, according to Stubbs, there seems to be a cultural misunderstanding rather than hatred towards Reese.
“What she said was an Australian slang for certain players getting better calls. If you know Sandy, you know she is the kindest person out there,” Stubbs wrote on Threads.
In Australian sporting circles, Brondello’s phrase suggests that a player receives favorable treatment from officials. However, in the US, it implies a whole new meaning, especially when directed towards a Black athlete.
“The WNBA expects all coaches and team personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect that are fundamental to our league,” the WNBA said on Saturday.
Brondello later apologized to Reese and said she meant no harm to Reese; rather, it was about officiating.
“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 wrote on X. “My frustration was with the officiating, but my words unfairly put the focus on you.
“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.”
Due to her suspension, Brondello won’t be available on the sidelines for Monday’s game against the Las Vegas Aces.
Serena Williams and Angel Reese Lead Star-Studded Athlete Presence at 2026 Met Gala
Tennis legend Serena Williams and Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese were among the notable athletes who made their presence felt on the red carpet of the 2026 Met Gala.
Williams hit the red carpet with a metallic silver ensemble, paired with gold heels.
Meanwhile, Reese wore a custom blush-pink Altuzarra trench coat gown, including a thigh-high slit, matching pink heels, a sleek bun, and a diamond necklace. When asked to describe her outfit, the Dream star said:
“It’s giving chic, it’s giving baddie, it’s giving grown.”
While Reese is just starting her career, Williams is a well-established name in women’s tennis. With 23 Grand Slams to her name, she needs no introduction. She recently made a surprise return to Wimbledon singles after nearly four years away. Meanwhile, Reese is in her third year in the WNBA.
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