Toronto Tempo Coach Apologizes After Using 'Protected Species' Phrase About Angel Reese

The Atlanta Dream defeated the Toronto Tempo 111-92 on July 17. With approximately 3:16 remaining in the fourth quarter, Angel Reese drew a foul on Nyara Sabally while attempting a shot. Sabally fell to the floor after the contact and received medical attention from Toronto staff.

The phrase is used in Australian sports to describe athletes perceived to receive preferential officiating treatment. Brondello is Australian and in her first season as head coach of the Tempo. On July 18, Brondello posted an apology on X addressed to Reese.

"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," she wrote. " Brondello added that her words carried an impact beyond what she intended, particularly for Black women in the league, and that she is deeply sorry.

She expressed regret for causing hurt to a community she respects and offered apologies to Reese, her teammates, and the Dream organization. She noted that she has spent her career competing with, coaching and learning from incredible Black women. " tagging Brondello's account and including a clown emoji.

In the weeks prior to July 18, multiple WNBA players reported receiving racist or hateful online messages. The Women's National Basketball Players Association has scheduled a meeting for Tuesday with commissioner Cathy Engelbert and league leadership, including the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee, to address online harassment.

A person with knowledge of the situation said the Brondello-Reese exchange will be discussed at the meeting.

The two teams are scheduled to play again in Atlanta on August 10.