The Toronto Tempo, a WNBA team, recently introduced their new mascots, Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare, during a game. These mascots, inspired by Aesop’s fable about a race between different animals, represent Canada’s only WNBA team. Dez and Dot have unique characteristics and backgrounds, with Dez being from Muskoka and enjoying music and tacos, while Dot, from the Arctic, has high energy and loves cotton candy and the Netflix F1 documentary series “Drive to Survive.”
Their story involves meeting and realizing their compatibility due to a shared love of rhythm, albeit with different approaches. Despite this, some fans have criticized the mascots for being poorly designed and not fitting in with the city’s identity. While some appreciate the tortoise and hare concept, others find their faces unsettling. The Tempo’s marketing officer emphasized the mascots’ Canadian roots, but critics suggest that a beaver or raccoon would have been more fitting choices.
Amidst the mixed reactions, some fans admire the mascots’ imagery and creativity. Speculations about their relationship and sexuality have also emerged, with reports clarifying that Dez and Dot are best friends, not siblings or in a romantic relationship. The Tempo, currently struggling with a losing streak, are looking for any positive influence the mascots can bring as they face challenges in their inaugural season.