Overview
- The Atlanta Dream beat the Toronto Tempo 111-92 on Friday night, with Angel Reese posting 23 points and 12 rebounds to lead the win.
- Late in the fourth quarter Reese and Toronto forward Nyara Sabally collided, Sabally left with a reported rib injury, and officials reviewed the play before ruling it a common foul.
- A live mic caught Tempo coach Sandy Brondello saying Reese was a “protected species,” a clip that circulated on social media and drew immediate condemnation.
- Reese publicly reposted the clip with the message “ARE WE SURPRISED?!” and a clown emoji, and Brondello issued an apology the next day saying she used a phrase she should not have used and took responsibility.
- Naz Hillmon shot a perfect 8-for-8 for a career-high 24 points in the game, the Tempo are facing roster strain with injuries, Sabally’s condition remains under evaluation, and the episode has intensified league conversations about language, cultural context and player safety online.