The Toronto Tempo, a team in the WNBA, recently unveiled their new mascots during a game. However, the reception from fans has been mixed, with some expressing hesitation about embracing them.
Dez, the snapping turtle, and Dot, the Arctic hare, symbolize different speeds, drawing inspiration from Aesop’s fable about a race between these two creatures. While they both represent Canada’s sole WNBA team, their personalities and backgrounds diverge.
Dez, hailing from Muskoka, is known for being composed, enjoying music, soft-shell tacos, and being a Taurus. In contrast, Dot, named after Toronto’s moniker T-Dot, brings high energy, a love for cotton candy, watching the Netflix F1 documentary series “Drive to Survive,” and is a Gemini. Their paths crossed when Dot followed the northern lights to Dez’s territory, realizing they complemented each other well.
According to the Tempo, the mascots share a passion for rhythm despite their differing approaches. Eventually, they were drawn to Toronto by its vibrant pulse. However, not all residents have embraced them, with some criticizing their design.
Whitney Bell, the Tempo’s chief marketing officer, emphasized the mascots’ Canadian identity. While some critics argue they do not sufficiently reflect Toronto, others appreciate the unique representation.
Despite the mixed reactions, some fans admire the mascots’ symbolic connection to the tale of the tortoise and the hare. Speculation about their relationship and sexuality has also emerged, but sources confirm they are simply best friends, not siblings or romantic partners.
The Toronto Tempo’s debut season has been challenging, with a record of 10–25 and a 12-game losing streak, leading to their elimination from playoff contention after a recent defeat against the Washington Mystics.
