The WNBA’s Toronto Tempo unveiled their long-awaited mascots during a game on Tuesday, although the reception from fans has been lukewarm. Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare, representing different tempos inspired by Aesop’s fable, are the official mascots for Canada’s sole WNBA team. Their origins and personalities are intricately detailed like many mascots, with Dez hailing from Muskoka and being a music-loving Taurus who enjoys soft-shell tacos, while Dot, named after Toronto’s nickname T-Dot, is a high-energy Gemini who loves cotton candy and the Netflix F1 series “Drive to Survive.” The duo’s story involves a meeting of rhythms and energies, with Dez’s patience complementing Dot’s speed, leading them to Toronto.
Despite their unique backstory, the mascots have faced criticism from some fans, who find them poorly designed and unappealing compared to other mascots like the Toronto Raptors’ Raptor. Comments on social media platforms have highlighted concerns over the mascots’ appearance and relevance to Canadian or Torontonian identity, with suggestions that a beaver or raccoon would have been more fitting choices. The Tempo has not yet responded to criticisms regarding their mascots.
While some critics have been vocal about their dissatisfaction, others have expressed appreciation for the tortoise and hare dynamic, praising the imagery and giving them high ratings. Speculation about the mascots’ relationship and sexuality, including rumors of them dating, has also circulated among fans, but a TSN reporter clarified that they are simply best friends. The Tempo, currently experiencing a challenging season with a 12-game losing streak, are out of playoff contention following a recent defeat to the Washington Mystics.