The Toronto Tempo of the WNBA unveiled their highly anticipated mascots during a game on Tuesday, but they have not received an overwhelming embrace from fans. Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare, named after characters in Aesop’s fable about a race between the two animals, are the mascots representing Canada’s sole WNBA team.
Dez, hailing from Muskoka, is described as composed and enjoys music, soft-shell tacos, and is a Taurus. Meanwhile, Dot, inspired by Toronto’s nickname T-Dot, comes from the Arctic, is full of energy, likes cotton candy and the Netflix series “Drive to Survive,” and is a Gemini. The two’s paths crossed when Dot followed the northern lights to Dez’s territory, where they realized their compatibility.
“The two quickly discovered a shared love of rhythm — even if they approached it very differently. Dez brought patience and timing; Dot brought speed and fearless energy,” stated the Tempo in a press release. “Eventually, the pulse of Toronto drew them both to the city.”
Despite their unique backstory, the mascots have faced criticism from some fans. One commenter on the team’s Instagram post described them as poorly designed and corny. Comparisons to the Toronto Raptors’ mascot, the Raptor, have also been made, with some expressing a preference for the dinosaur mascot.
Critics have pointed out that the mascots do not align well with Canadian or Torontonian themes, suggesting that a beaver or raccoon would have been more suitable choices. The Tempo’s Chief Marketing Officer, Whitney Bell, emphasized the mascots’ Canadian identity but acknowledged the mixed reactions they have received online.
While some have found the mascots’ faces unsettling, others have praised the concept behind Dez and Dot. Speculations about the nature of their relationship and sexuality have surfaced among fans, with some wondering if they are dating. However, a TSN Toronto Tempo beat reporter clarified that Dez and Dot are not siblings or in a romantic relationship, but simply best friends.
The Tempo, currently struggling with a 10–25 record in their inaugural season and a 12-game losing streak, faced a setback in their playoff aspirations following a recent loss to the Washington Mystics. The team has not responded to criticism of their mascots as of yet. Despite differing opinions, some fans have expressed fondness for the mascots, appreciating the symbolism behind the tortoise and hare dynamic.