The Toronto Tempo WNBA team has drawn sharp criticism after unveiling two new mascots: Dez (a snapping turtle with she-them pronouns) and Dot (an arctic hare with she/her pronouns).
According to a Wednesday announcement, the mascots were introduced during Tuesday’s game against the Indiana Fever. During that contest, Toronto Tempo fans repeatedly booed Indiana Fever star guard Sophie Cunningham, who helped her team defeat the Toronto Tempo despite the boos.
A queer publication described Dez as having “butch energy” and wondered whether the two mascots formed a lesbian relationship. In response to speculation, the Toronto Tempo team stated only that Dez and Dot are “besties.”
Social media reactions have been largely negative, with users describing the mascots as “woke trans garbage,” “fking humiliating,” and “the worst they’ve ever seen.” Comments include:
“Your organization is disgusting. I have 3 girls and none will be attending your games. Ever. Have fun losing more of the NBA’s money.”
“Butch lesbian mascot for a WNBA team you really outdid yourselves.”
“This is fking HUMILIATING.”
Many believe the Seattle Storm’s mascot, Doppler, was the first nonbinary mascot in the WNBA.
