The WNBA team Toronto Tempo unveiled their anticipated mascots at a recent game, but the reception from fans has been mixed. Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare, inspired by Aesop’s fable, symbolize different speeds. Despite their differences, they both represent Canada’s sole WNBA team.
Dez, hailing from Muskoka, is calm, enjoys music and soft-shell tacos, and is a Taurus. On the other hand, Dot, Toronto’s T-Dot resident, is energetic, likes cotton candy and the Netflix F1 series “Drive to Survive,” and is a Gemini. Their meeting in Dez’s territory led to a mutual understanding and partnership.
The Tempo’s news release described how Dez and Dot bonded over their shared love for rhythm, albeit with contrasting styles. Eventually, they were drawn to Toronto’s vibrant atmosphere. However, the mascots have faced criticism from some fans, with comments expressing disappointment in the design and choice of mascots compared to the Toronto Raptors’ popular dinosaur mascot.
Critics have found the mascots’ appearances unsettling, with some feeling uncomfortable with how Dot gazes at them. Despite the mixed reactions, the Tempo’s Chief Marketing Officer emphasized the mascots’ Canadian identity. Some online voices have suggested that more traditional Canadian animals like beavers or raccoons would have been better choices.
While some fans appreciate the tortoise-and-hare dynamic, others have questioned the mascots’ relationship status. However, it has been clarified that Dez and Dot are simply best friends, not siblings or partners. As the Tempo struggles in their debut season with a 10–25 record and a 12-game losing streak, the team hopes for a change in fortune with their new mascots by their side.