WNBA suspends Tempo HC Sandy Brondello for controversial Angel Reese remark

Before being suspended, Brondello issued a lengthy post to social media that began with a direct apology to Reese.

"Angel, I'm sorry," the statement began. "I used a phrase that I should have used, and I take full responsibility for that."

"I also understand that my words carried an impact beyond what I intended, particularly for Black women in our league," Brondello added. "I regret that my words caused hurt to a community I respect so deeply."

Brondello ended by redirecting her comments to Reese, saying, "I have a lot of respect for you as both a player and a person, and I sincerely apologize to you."

Even with the heartfelt message that South Carolina Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley hailed as "A real apology," the WNBA needed to act, particularly with a recent troubling history of dragging its feet when addressing racism.

The league's handling of the fallout from Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas' hard play against Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, which resulted in Thomas receiving a one-game suspension, received scrutiny.

The 2023 MVP runner-up told reporters after serving her punishment that she had received death threats and other hate messages.

"People are sending racial slurs and all types of stuff," Thomas said, "We still have yet to hear from [commissioner] Cathy [Englebert]. It's no surprise." (h/t ESPN)

In response, the league shared a statement saying it "vehemently condemns any and all forms of hate."

Englebert made the right call, suspending Brondello, and somewhat surprisingly, she showed a sense of urgency in doing so. While the league can't police every online troll comment, it can demand its coaches lead by example. In that regard, Brondello came up woefully short.

The WNBA's response wasn't only justified but also necessary based on leadership's past failings. Perhaps it's finally learned from past mistakes.