Toronto Tempo reveal new non-binary mascot with Sophie Cunningham, Indiana Fever in attendance

The Toronto Tempo unveiled their new non-binary mascots, Dez and Dot, against the Indiana Fever on Tuesday at the Coca-Cola Coliseum. The debut of the mascots came amidst a trans athlete debate that has dominated the WNBA over the past month. Dez is a Borealis Blue Snapping Turtle from Muskoka, Ontario, who identifies with she/they pronouns.

The turtle's name is derived from the word 'decibel' to reflect their love for music. Dot, on the other hand, is an Arctic Hare named after Toronto's long-time nickname, T-Dot. She is described as the duo's 'hype woman' with her endless energy and acrobatic abilities. The introduction of Dez and Dot marks a progressive move by the Tempo, aiming to send a message of inclusivity in a time when gender identity has been a contentious issue in the WNBA.

The mascots' reveal coincided with the attendance of the Fever, providing a platform to address the discussion in front of Sophie Cunningham, whose controversial remarks on protecting biological women sparked the ongoing debate. Tempo's Chief Marketing Officer, Whitney Bell, stated that the pair, Dez and Dot, were designed to embody the team's Canadian identity and represent the harmonious balance of contrasting personalities.