Toronto Tempo Reveal Non-Binary Mascot as Fans Boo Sophie Cunningham
The Toronto Tempo, a WNBA expansion franchise, revealed its new mascot duo, and the timing could not have been better.
On Tuesday night, the Toronto Tempo faced off against the Indiana Fever at Scotiabank Arena, where the Fever emerged victorious with a score of 101-95. While the Fever's win captured the attention, it was the unveiling of the Tempo's two new mascots, Dez the Snapping Turtle and Dot the Arctic Hair, that dominated the conversation.
The Tempo had no intention of tying the mascot reveal to Sophie Cunningham's presence at the game, but the two events coincided due to Cunningham's recent remarks about transgender athletes and the non-binary nature of Dez the Snapping Turtle. Dez (she/they) is a Borealis Blue Snapping Turtle from Muskoka, Ontario, and embodies qualities of calmness, cleverness, and foresight.
The mascot's introduction aims to present a new perspective on the classic tale of the tortoise and the hare, symbolizing steadiness and adaptability. Sophie Cunningham, the Fever's guard, was met with loud boos during the game, despite her claim that she never said she hated transgender individuals. She emphasized her desire to extend love while maintaining honesty and protecting young athletes.
Cunningham dismissed the boos, stating that the crowd's passion and support for their city were remarkable.
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