About this episode

The episode discusses the controversy surrounding Sandy Brondello's comments about Angel Reese and explores broader themes of race and language in sports.

Words matter—and sometimes they can ignite a league-wide conversation. Zena, Annie, and Sabreena unpack the controversy surrounding Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello's comments about Angel Reese, exploring the role of context, intent, impact, and the broader conversations about race and language in sports. The crew also examines the evolving leadership dynamic between Adam Silver and Cathy Engelbert and how much oversight Adam Silver has on the WNBA. Plus, we break down Caitlin Clark's record-setting performance, the Golden State Valkyries' impressive winning streak, and what's behind the New York Liberty's recent struggles. Finally, we close the show with one of our favorite games: Two Takes and a Fake . REFERENCES:  Tempo coach suspended after calling Angel Reese ‘protected species’ during game by Sabreena Merchant Angel Reese thanks Tempo’s Sandy Brondello, WNBA for response to coach’s offensive remark by Annie Costabile Chicago Sky defer opening of new practice facility again, cite updated interior plans by Annie Costabile WNBA power rankings: Will the New York Liberty eventually find their groove? by Sabreena Merchant Caitlin Clark tallies 45 points to break…

People in this episode

Hosts: Zena, Annie, Sabreena

Topics covered

• Sandy Brondello comments
• race and language in sports
• WNBA leadership dynamics
• Caitlin Clark performance
• New York Liberty struggles
• Golden State Valkyries winning streak

Keywords

• Sandy Brondello
• Angel Reese
• Caitlin Clark
• WNBA
• race
• language
• leadership
• Golden State Valkyries
• New York Liberty

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Toronto Tempo, Golden State Valkyries, New York Liberty, Chicago Sky, WNBA, The Athletic

Books & works: No Offseason

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• Sparks “Part Ways” with General Manager Raegan Pebley · July 14, 2026 · 1h 5m
• The Crucial Injuries Changing the WNBA Season · July 10, 2026 · 49 min
• Why Angel Reese and Atlanta are the Perfect Match · July 9, 2026 · 1h 1m
• Why Officiating in the WNBA Lacks Accountability · July 7, 2026 · 1h 3m

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