WNBA star Angel Reese is focused on helping the Atlanta Dream move up the standings and potentially win a championship. A controversial moment ensued during the Dream’s recent win over the Toronto Tempo, as the Tempo’s head coach, Sandy Brondello, became frustrated with the officials and took a shot at Reese.
Former WNBA star and current women’s college basketball icon Dawn Staley revealed her thoughts on the situation.
Dawn Staley Praises Sandy Brondello For Sincere Apology Following Angel Reese Controversy
Brondello was upset at the officiating in the Dream’s 111-92 win over the Tempo, specifically Reese receiving what she believed was special treatment.
Brondello referred to Reese as a “protected species” while voicing her complaints to the refs. The Australian later apologized for her comments, and Staley praised Brondello for having remorse.
“A real apology,” Staley posted.
A real apology https://t.co/7LvoFbDaOR
— dawnstaley (@dawnstaley) July 18, 2026
Reese found out about the incident and voiced her displeasure on social media, saying she wasn’t surprised, while tagging Brondello’s account with a clown emoji.
The Dream star appears to believe there was malice behind the statement, which caused Brondello to issue an apology to Reese and the entire Dream organization.
Expressing her respect for black women in the WNBA and the entire community, the Tempo’s head coach wrote,
“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,” Brondello posted.
“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,” she 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.
— Sandy Brondello (@SBrondello) July 18, 2026
Not long after, however, the WNBA announced the decision to suspend Brondello.
“Toronto Tempo Head Coach Sandy Brondello has been suspended without pay for one game for an inappropriate comment she made regarding Angel Reese of the Atlanta Dream during the Tempo’s 111-92 loss to the Dream yesterday in Toronto,” the statement read.
“Brondello will serve her suspension Monday when the Tempo host the Las Vegas Aces. The WNBA expects all coaches and team personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect that are fundamental to our league.”
The current controversy between Reese and Brondello is the latest chapter in what has been a tense summer in the WNBA so far.
Another issue revolves around Reese’s rival, Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. Members of Congress issued a letter to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, urging her to do something regarding Clark’s treatment on the court.
Multiple WNBA players have voiced concerns about receiving online hate messages, and the WNBPA and commissioner Cathy Engelbert are set to hold a meeting on Tuesday, per The Athletic.
