Sandy Brondello suspended by WNBA for inappropriate comment about Angel Reese

Australian coach Sandy Brondello has been suspended for one game by the WNBA for an inappropriate comment she made during the Toronto Tempo’s game against the Atlanta Dream.

Brondello, who coaches the Temps as well as the Opals, will miss Tuesday’s AEST game against the Las Vegas A’s.

“The WNBA expects all coaches and team personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect that are fundamental to our league,” the league said in a statement announcing the suspension.

During the 111-92 loss to the Dream on Saturday AEST, the broadcast showed Brondello addressing officials after Tempo player Nyara Sabally went down with an injury following contact with Angel Reese.

Sabally was called for a foul and Brondello was heard saying Reese was a “protected species.”

The phrase “protected species” is commonly used in Australian sport to express disappointment that a player has not been charged.

However, in the US, this phrase can be considered derogatory towards blacks.

Angel Reese took to social media in response to Sandy Brondello’s comment. (Getty Images: Mark Blinch)

Brondello posted an apology on social media.

“Angel, I’m so sorry,” Brondello wrote on X.

“Last night, in the excitement of Nyara’s injury, I said a phrase that I should not have used and I take full responsibility for that. My disappointment was with the judging, but my words unfairly focused attention on you.”

How Brondello hopes to overthrow the US

Since 2006, no country has been able to beat the United States at either the FIBA ​​World Cup or the Olympics. That’s what Sandy Brondello is doing trying to get Australia’s Opals team over the hump.

After the game, Reese wrote on social media: “ARE WE SURPRISED?!” and a tag to Brondello’s account, followed by a clown face emoji.

“I also understand that my words have had a greater impact than I realized, especially on black women in our league, and I am truly sorry,” Brondello wrote.

“I have spent my career competing, coaching and learning from incredible black women.”

Brondello added: “I regret that my words caused pain to the community that I respect so deeply.

“I have the utmost respect for you as a player and a person, and I sincerely apologize to you, your teammates and the Dream organization for my comment.”

AP