Toronto Tempo coach Sandy Brondello apologized to Angel Reese on Saturday after using a phrase interpreted as derogatory during Friday's 111-92 loss to the Atlanta Dream. The broadcast captured Brondello addressing officials after Nyara Sabally's injury following contact with Reese, using a phrase sounding like "protected species."

Reese responded on social media with "ARE WE SURPRISED?! @SBrondello" and a clown emoji. The incident will be discussed at a scheduled meeting between players and commissioner Cathy Engelbert next week. Brondello, from Australia, explained the phrase is used in Australian sports to express frustration over perceived preferential officiating, but acknowledged its derogatory history toward Black people in American culture.

Brondello posted a full apology, taking responsibility and acknowledging the impact on Black women in the league. She has coached the Australian national team since 2017 and is in her first season with the Tempo after winning championships with the Phoenix Mercury and New York Liberty. Reese, a three-time All-Star, has faced significant online vitriol since joining the league.