Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello was suspended by the WNBA for a comment she made about Angel Reese, and a few differing opinions seem to have emerged from it.
In a clip that has now gone viral on social media, Brondello can be heard calling Angel Reese a “protected species”. The comment has brought about reactions all over social media, with the WNBA suspending Brondello for one game without pay.
Former ESPN anchor Sage Steele has now opened up about the incident, recounting an example from the past in which a broadcaster’s comments about Venus Williams led to him being fired.
“We all know what these phrases mean. Stop the feigned outrage & race baiting,” Steele said.
Sandy Brondello’s Apology to Angel Reese
A lot of the fire seems to have been put out by Sandy Brondello herself, who apologized publicly to Angel Reese for the comment.
“Angel, I’m sorry. Last night, in the emotion of the moment after Nyara [Sabbaly’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 said.
“I also understand my words carry 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.
“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.”
As things stand, Brondello is set to miss Toronto Tempo’s next WNBA clash against the Las Vegas Aces on Monday.
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