Angel Reese continued her outstanding season on Friday night, leading the Atlanta Dream to a 111-92 victory over the Toronto Tempo. The three-time All-Star finished with 23 points and 12 rebounds on 7-of-11 shooting, recording her league-leading 17th double-double of the season as Atlanta improved to 15-10. Naz Hillmon added a career-high 24 points, while Jordin Canada contributed 18 points and 13 assists as the Dream strengthened their hold on fifth place in the WNBA standings.
The game, however, ended with an unfortunate controversy. Late in the fourth quarter, Reese collided with Toronto forward Nyara Sabally, who suffered a rib injury on the play and had to be helped off the court. As officials ruled a defensive foul on Sabally, Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello could be heard referring to Reese as a “protected species” while arguing with the officials.
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Reese later responded on X by reposting a fan’s criticism of the comment and writing, “ARE WE SURPRISED?!” while tagging Brondello.
Brondello addressed the situation on Saturday, issuing a lengthy apology to Reese on X.
“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. 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. I regret that my words caused hurt to a community I respect so deeply. I have a lot of respect for you as both a player and a person, and I sincerely apologize to you, your teammates, and the Dream organization for my comment.”
As of this writing, Reese had not publicly responded to Brondello’s apology.
Atlanta will conclude the first half of its schedule at home against Reese’s former team, the Chicago Sky, while the Tempo will look to bounce back when they host the Las Vegas Aces in their next outing.
