The WNBA’s Toronto Tempo unveiled their highly anticipated mascots during a recent game, but the reaction from fans has been mixed. Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare, inspired by Aesop’s fable of a race between the two animals, represent the only mascots for Canada’s sole WNBA team. Each mascot comes with a unique personality and origin story.

Dez, hailing from Muskoka, is nicknamed after “decibel,” enjoys music, soft-shell tacos, and is a Taurus. On the other hand, Dot, dubbed after Toronto’s nickname T-Dot, hails from the Arctic, loves cotton candy, the Netflix F1 series “Drive to Survive,” and is a Gemini. Their meeting at Dez’s home following Dot’s journey under the northern lights sparked a perfect partnership centered on their shared love for rhythm, albeit with different approaches.

Despite their heartfelt backstory, the mascots faced criticism from some fans for their design and resemblance to characters from a children’s coloring book. While some found their faces unsettling, others praised the concept but felt the execution lacked appeal. The Tempo’s Chief Marketing Officer emphasized the mascots’ Canadian identity, but online critics questioned their representation of Toronto, suggesting alternatives like a beaver or raccoon would have been more fitting.

Despite the mixed reactions, some fans appreciated the symbolism of the tortoise and hare dynamic, with one user expressing a fondness for the imagery. Speculations about the mascots’ relationship status and sexuality have also surfaced, with fans debating whether they are dating. However, a beat reporter clarified that they are simply best friends.

As the Tempo struggle through a challenging season, currently holding a 10–25 record and a 12-game losing streak, the arrival of Dez and Dot brings a new dimension to the team’s identity. Their recent loss to the Washington Mystics dashed their playoff hopes, adding to the challenges faced by the franchise in their debut season.