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Serena Williams Backs WNBA Coach Sandy Brondello After Suspension Over Angel Reese Comments

2026-07-20 · Serena Williams · Player Focus

Serena Williams’ coach Rennae Stubbs defends WNBA coach Sandy Brondello after suspension over Angel Reese comments

On 18 July 2026, former Australian tennis star and Serena Williams’ coach Rennae Stubbs publicly backed Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello after the WNBA suspended her for one game following controversial remarks about Angel Reese.

What happened?

The WNBA handed Brondello a one-game suspension on 17 July 2026 after she used the phrase “protected species” in reference to Angel Reese during a game against the Atlanta Dream. The comment came after Tempo forward Nyara Sabally was called for a foul despite appearing injured in a collision with Reese.

The league stated in a release that Brondello’s words violated professionalism standards. Brondello later apologized to Reese, clarifying her frustration was aimed at officiating, not the player.

Why Stubbs stepped in

Stubbs took to Threads to defend Brondello, calling the incident a cultural misunderstanding rather than malice. She argued the phrase is common Australian slang meaning a player receives favorable calls, not an insult.

“If you know Sandy, you know she is the kindest person out there,” Stubbs wrote. The WNBA’s stance contrasts with Stubbs’ interpretation, underscoring how language can carry different meanings across sports cultures.

The fallout and Brondello’s apology

Brondello’s suspension means she will miss Monday’s game against the Las Vegas Aces. In a post on X, she told Angel Reese: “My words unfairly put the focus on you. I understand they carried an impact beyond what I intended, particularly for Black women in our league.”

Reese accepted the apology, though the league’s decision stands. The episode spotlights tensions between on-court passion and league-mandated decorum.

Serena Williams’ role in the story

Serena Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, was not directly involved in the WNBA incident. Yet her connection to Stubbs-who coached her in the past-brings a high-profile tennis voice into the debate over language and officiating in women’s sports.

Stubbs’ support for Brondello adds another layer to the ongoing conversation about cultural differences in sports communication.

More Serena Williams news →