WNBA coach Brondello suspended for comment about Angel Reese

A Toronto Tempo player was suspended for one game after an on‑court incident involving Atlanta Dream guard Kelsey‑B. Brondello, who was playing for the Tempo in a recent matchup, referred to Dream player Reese as a “protected species” during a heated exchange. The league’s disciplinary committee reviewed the exchange and imposed a one‑game suspension on Brondello, citing the comment as a violation of the league’s conduct policy.

The incident occurred late in the third quarter of the Tempo‑Dream game, a contest that saw both teams battling for a playoff spot. Brondello’s remark was deemed a derogatory reference that crossed the line of acceptable language, prompting the league to take swift action. The Tempo’s coaching staff issued a statement condemning the comment and reaffirming their commitment to respectful play.

The suspension will take effect in the Tempo’s next scheduled game, and Brondello will be required to attend a mandatory conduct education session before returning to the court. The league reiterated that such language is not tolerated and that all players must adhere to the standards of sportsmanship set forth in the collective bargaining agreement.