The WNBA’s Toronto Tempo unveiled their highly anticipated mascots during a game on Tuesday, but some fans are not immediately warming up to them. Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare, representing different speeds in a nod to Aesop’s fable, are the mascots for Canada’s lone WNBA team. Each mascot has a unique backstory, with Dez hailing from Muskoka, being cool-headed, a music lover, enjoying soft-shell tacos, and a Taurus. On the other hand, Dot, named after Toronto’s nickname T-Dot, comes from the Arctic, is energetic, loves cotton candy, the Netflix series “Drive to Survive,” and is a Gemini. The two bonded over a shared love for rhythm but with contrasting approaches, leading them to Toronto.
Despite their unique qualities, the mascots faced criticism from some fans who found them poorly designed and lacking appeal compared to Toronto Raptors’ mascot, the Raptor. However, history shows that even the Raptors faced initial backlash. Some online critics expressed disappointment, suggesting that a beaver or raccoon would have been more fitting choices for Canadian mascots. While the mascots’ faces were unsettling to some, others appreciated the tortoise and hare concept and complimented the imagery.
Whitney Bell, the Tempo’s chief marketing officer, emphasized the mascots’ Canadian identity. While some critics feel the mascots do not adequately represent Toronto, others found the tortoise and hare theme intriguing. Speculation arose among fans about the mascots’ relationship and sexuality, with some questioning if they were dating. TSN Toronto Tempo beat reporter Chelsea Leite clarified that Dez and Dot are just best friends, not siblings or romantic partners.
The Tempo franchise, currently struggling with a 10–25 record and a 12-game losing streak, hopes the new mascots will bring them luck. Their recent defeat against the Washington Mystics dashed their playoff hopes.