Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Toronto Tempo Unveils Mascots Dez and Dot at Halftime

8/22/2026

50 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Toronto Tempo unveiled mascets Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare at halftime.
Marketing officer Whitney Bell said the duo represents steady and swift and highlights Canadian identity.
Dez uses she/they pronouns, is a Borealis-blue turtle from Muskoka, and DJs.
Dot uses she/her pronouns, is an Arctic hare, and enjoys cotton candy.
The team said they are besties, not dating, receiving fan praise for their queer vibe.

History

Historical Context

In 1971 Toronto’s population hit two million, and the city’s growing LGBTQ+ community helped launch the celebrations that evolved into the world-renowned Pride Week each June. The Raptors, who entered the NBA in 1995 and won the title in 2019, now debut queer mascots Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare, echoing that long-standing civic support for LGBTQ+ visibility.

1 of 2

Story summary

Toronto Tempo unveiled mascets Dez the snapping turtle and Dot the Arctic hare at halftime.
Marketing officer Whitney Bell said the duo represents steady and swift and highlights Canadian identity.
Dez uses she/they pronouns, is a Borealis-blue turtle from Muskoka, and DJs.
Dot uses she/her pronouns, is an Arctic hare, and enjoys cotton candy.
The team said they are besties, not dating, receiving fan praise for their queer vibe.

1 / 2