The WNBA’s Toronto Tempo has stirred up some controversy following the unveiling of their new mascot duo, one of whom identifies with she-them pronouns. The mascots introduced are Dez, a snapping turtle with those non-traditional pronouns, and Dot, an arctic hare representing she/her pronouns, as noted in a statement released on Wednesday.
Comments online have not been shy, with some reactions describing this initiative as “woke trans garbage,” particularly coming from a team whose supporters have expressed disapproval towards a woman advocating for the exclusion of boys in female sports.
According to Pink News, Dez carries what they called “butch energy,” prompting discussions about whether the mascots represent some form of LGBTQ pairing. The publication humorously speculated on the mascots’ relationship status, questioning if they are merely friends, perhaps in a romantic relationship, or simply two fictional creatures caught in a prolonged and ambiguous scenario typical of the WNBA.
This reveal coincided with the team’s game against the Indiana Fever, which also attracted attention due to the star player Sophie Cunningham’s controversial stance against male participation in women’s sports. The Canadian fans, visibly displeased, booed Cunningham, although she played a pivotal role in leading her team to victory against the Tempo.
Furthermore, there’s a belief circulating that the Seattle Storm’s mascot, Doppler, was the first non-binary representation in the WNBA. However, many social media users did not share the same enthusiasm regarding the new mascots.
A particular commenter expressed their dismay, stating, “Your organization is disgusting. I have three daughters, and none will be attending your games. Good luck losing more of the NBA’s money.” Another critic remarked, “Butch lesbian mascot for a WNBA team, you really outdid yourselves,” while yet another callously declared, “This is f**king HUMILIATING.” Responses included claims that these mascots epitomize a sort of “woke trans garbage,” repeating sentiments critiquing the fan base.
Another social media response encapsulated a broader feeling, stating, “Ladies and Gentlemen, this is Liberal Toronto and Liberal Canada in a nutshell. Absolutely ridiculous… mascots are for children,” summarizing a dissatisfied viewpoint with a simple, “Yuck.”
In addressing the speculation around a romantic connection between the two mascots, the team clarified that no such relationship exists; rather, they are simply “besties.”
Requests for comments directed at both the WNBA and the Toronto Tempo did not receive a response.
