Angel Reese Responds to Sandy Brondello's 'Protected Species' Comment Following WNBA Suspension

Angel Reese, a player for the Atlanta Dream, addressed comments made by Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello before a game against the Chicago Sky. Brondello was suspended by the WNBA for referring to Reese as a 'protected species' during a game. Reese expressed gratitude for the league's action, stating that there is 'no place for discrimination or hate' in the WNBA. She did not mention Brondello's Australian background or the common use of the term in Australian sports, which typically refers to players receiving favorable treatment from officials. Reese's comments framed the incident as discrimination, although she did not explicitly label Brondello as racist. The controversy began after a game where Reese collided with Tempo player Nyara Sabally, leading to Brondello's remarks about officiating. Brondello later apologized, stating her comment was made in the heat of the moment and was not directed at Reese. She acknowledged the impact of her words and expressed a desire to have a conversation with Reese to clarify her intentions. As of the latest updates, Reese had not responded to Brondello's outreach.