The WNBA’s Toronto Tempo introduced their long-awaited mascots during a recent game, but the reception from fans has been lukewarm. Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare, inspired by Aesop’s fable of a race between the two animals, symbolize different tempos while uniting as the mascots for Canada’s sole WNBA team.
These mascots come with detailed backgrounds: Dez, hailing from Muskoka, is calm, enjoys music, soft-shell tacos, and is a Taurus; Dot, representing Toronto as T-Dot, is energetic, fond of cotton candy, the Netflix F1 series “Drive to Survive,” and is a Gemini. Their story unfolds as Dot follows the northern lights southward to Dez’s habitat, where they discover a shared passion for rhythm despite their contrasting styles.
Although the Tempo’s news release highlights the mascots’ journey to Toronto, some locals have not embraced them immediately. Criticism on social media platforms points out the perceived lackluster design and un-Canadian aspects of the mascots, with suggestions for more fitting choices like a beaver or raccoon.
While not all feedback has been negative, some find the mascots’ appearances unsettling, prompting mixed reactions online. The franchise has yet to respond to critiques, but positive remarks acknowledge the creative concept and symbolism behind the tortoise and hare dynamic.
As the Tempo faces challenges on the court with a disappointing season record, the mascots’ presence sparks discussions among fans about their relationship and speculations on their personal lives. However, a clarification from a TSN reporter confirms that Dez and Dot are simply best friends, not siblings or romantically involved.