Angel Reese Accepts Apology After Coach's 'Protected Species' Remark
Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello called Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese a “protected species” during a game, a phrase that is a common Australian sports idiom but is perceived in the United States as a dehumanizing slur aimed at Black women. The WNBA suspended Brondello for one game without pay and she issued a public apology, acknowledging the impact of her words. Reese accepted the apology, saying she appreciated the league’s swift action, emphasized that “there is no place for discrimination or hate in this league,” and expressed gratitude for the support she received. Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon defended Brondello, describing her as a “high‑quality person” and urging a focus on unity in the sport. The incident highlights cultural misunderstandings across the league and has sparked broader discussions about race, language, and the shortage of Black women coaches in the WNBA.