The WNBA’s Toronto Tempo introduced their long-awaited mascots during a recent game, but the reception has been mixed among fans. Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare, symbolizing different speeds like in Aesop’s fable, are the team’s mascots. Despite their diverse personalities and origins, both represent Canada’s sole WNBA franchise.
Dez, hailing from Muskoka, enjoys music, soft-shell tacos, and is a Taurus, while Dot, nicknamed after Toronto (“T-Dot”), hails from the Arctic, loves cotton candy, the Netflix F1 series “Drive to Survive,” and is a Gemini. Their unique bond formed when Dot followed the northern lights to Dez’s territory, realizing they complemented each other perfectly.
The Tempo’s news release described how the duo shared a passion for rhythm, each bringing a different approach. Eventually, they were drawn to Toronto by its vibrant energy. However, the mascots faced criticism from some fans, with comments calling them poorly designed and comparing them unfavorably to the Toronto Raptors’ Raptor mascot.
Whitney Bell, the Tempo’s chief marketing officer, emphasized the mascots’ Canadian identity, but online critics felt they lacked a distinctly Canadian or Torontonian feel, suggesting a beaver or raccoon would have been more fitting choices. While some fans appreciated the mascots’ concept and imagery, others found their faces unsettling.
Speculation about the mascots’ relationship and sexuality has circulated among fans, with some questioning if they are dating. However, a TSN reporter clarified that Dez and Dot are simply best friends. As the Tempo struggle in their inaugural season with a 10–25 record and a 12-game losing streak, their mascots may bring the team some much-needed luck.