Toronto Tempo unveils snapping-turtle mascot with non-traditional pronouns, sparks online backlash

At a recent Toronto Tempo matchup versus the Indiana Fever, the WNBA franchise rolled out a snapping-turtle mascot that is described as using non-traditional pronouns. The announcement generated a flurry of disparaging remarks on social platforms, with critics labeling the mascot as an example of "woke" culture and questioning its suitability for a sports audience. The backlash unfolded alongside vocal opposition to visiting guard Sophie Cunningham, whose comments on gender participation in women's sports drew boos from the crowd.

While some observers expressed amusement, others warned the mascot could alienate families. The organization has not responded to media inquiries for comment.