Toronto Tempo unveils gender-fluid mascots amid fan backlash during Fever game

The Toronto Tempo hosted the Indiana Fever for the franchise’s debut, shifting the venue from Coca-Coal Coliseum to the larger Scotiabank Arena to handle the audience attracted by star guard Caitlin Clark. At halftime, the team presented its new mascots, Dez and Dot, framing them as a contemporary spin on the classic tortoise-and-hare story that highlights the value of changing pace. The mascots were identified with she/they pronouns, prompting a wave of negative reactions on social media, with some users calling the characters a "woke joke" and expressing disgust.

Commentators noted that the criticism appeared unrelated to the mascots’ design and more tied to gender-identity debates. The WNBA, which prides itself on an inclusive culture, affirmed its resolve to maintain a welcoming environment for all participants. The incident underscores the tension between progressive branding efforts and segments of the fan base resistant to such changes.