Red Panda, a renowned Chinese American acrobat, sustained a serious injury during a halftime performance at the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup final held in Minneapolis. The incident happened on the night of July 1, 2025, as she began her famous bowl-flipping act on an eight-foot unicycle. The performer, whose real name is Rong Niu, fell forward and hit the court. She immediately grabbed her left wrist, which was later found to be fractured. She was taken off the court by wheelchair and then brought to a hospital by ambulance. Her agent confirmed that the fall was caused by malfunctioning equipment during transportation. She stayed in a Minneapolis hospital for 11 hours, supported by two Lynx staff members. The accident took place during the game between the Indiana Fever and the Minnesota Lynx, which ended in a Fever victory.

Red Panda’s performances have become a distinguished part of basketball entertainment, especially during major events like the NBA Finals. Her act is known for its artistry, focus, and cultural meaning. The injury has raised concerns about safety checks and equipment integrity. She will undergo more medical tests, and rehabilitation is expected to last several months. Her agent shared that she remains steadfast and truly thankful for the many messages of encouragement. Caitlin Clark, a rising basketball star, also gave support during a postgame livestream. Despite the setback, Red Panda remains determined to make a full return next season and continue to captivate fans around the world.