The Toronto Tempo, a WNBA team, introduced their long-awaited mascots during a recent game, but they have not received an overwhelmingly positive response from fans. The mascots, Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare, symbolize different speeds, drawing inspiration from Aesop’s fable about a race between the two animals. Despite their unique characteristics, they share the role of representing Canada’s sole WNBA franchise.
Dez, hailing from Muskoka, is portrayed as composed, with a penchant for music, soft-shell tacos, and a Taurus zodiac sign. On the other hand, Dot, nicknamed after Toronto’s T-Dot, exudes high energy, enjoys cotton candy, is a fan of the Netflix F1 documentary series “Drive to Survive,” and is a Gemini. Their serendipitous meeting led them to realize their compatibility.
According to a news release from the Tempo, Dez and Dot bonded over their mutual love for rhythm, albeit with contrasting approaches. Their journey eventually brought them to Toronto, where they felt a connection to the city’s heartbeat. However, some fans have criticized the mascots’ design, labeling them as unappealing and unsuitable for representing the team.
Whitney Bell, the Tempo’s chief marketing officer, emphasized the mascots’ Canadian identity as a crucial aspect of their character. Despite this, online critics have expressed discontent, suggesting that a beaver or raccoon would have been more fitting choices for mascots representing Toronto. The team has yet to address the criticisms publicly.
While some have been critical, others have shown appreciation for the mascots’ concept and symbolism. One social media user admired the “tortoise and the hare vibes,” while another expressed a strong affinity, stating they would “die for them.” Speculation about the mascots’ relationship and sexuality has also surfaced among fans, with discussions on whether they are romantically involved. However, a beat reporter confirmed that Dez and Dot are simply best friends, dispelling the rumors.
The Toronto Tempo’s performance on the court has been challenging, with a current record of 10-25 in their debut season and a 12-game losing streak. Their recent defeat against the Washington Mystics ended their hopes for a playoff spot.