The Toronto Tempo, an expansion WNBA franchise, introduced two new mascots, Dot and Dez, at halftime of their game against the Indiana Fever on Tuesday night. Dez, a Snapping Turtle, uses she/they pronouns, while Dot, an Arctic Hare, uses she/her pronouns.
Team officials stated that the mascots embody the franchise's identity as a Canadian team and reflect a modern interpretation of the tortoise and the hare fable, emphasizing adaptability. Whitney Bell, Chief Marketing Officer for the Tempo, noted the mascots' distinct personalities and how they complement each other.
The unveiling occurred on a night when the Tempo hosted the Indiana Fever, featuring player Sophie Cunningham. Cunningham has recently been at the forefront of a league-wide discussion regarding biological sex and participation in women's sports. Her expressed views have generated both support and criticism.
In response to the ongoing debate, former NBA players Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White announced their intentions to declare for the WNBA draft. Freedom, a 6-foot-10-inch former NBA player, stated his plans earlier this month. White, who played briefly in the NBA, declared he is now transgender and wishes to compete in the league.
Last week, WNBA general managers and presidents convened as part of an anti-hate task force to discuss athlete eligibility criteria in light of the transgender debate. Following the meeting, the league issued a statement indicating no immediate eligibility issues were affecting the WNBA. A spokesperson for the league denounced "bad-faith efforts" to "demean or marginalize others" and committed to ongoing thoughtful discussions with league stakeholders.
The league reaffirmed its values and stated that it would continue to engage all stakeholders in these conversations, addressing "hate and vitriol directed at players online."