MINNEAPOLIS — The WNBA Commissioner’s Cup game between the Minnesota Lynx and Indiana Fever took an unexpected turn on Tuesday evening when renowned halftime performer Rong “Krystal” Niu, famously known as Red Panda, suffered an injury during her act. Less than a minute into her performance at the Target Center, Niu fell from her unicycle, prompting immediate concern from the audience.
Witnesses reported that Niu briefly stood up but was visibly in pain, clutching her back and appearing to have injured her left wrist. Target Center staff quickly responded, assisting her to the sidelines and providing a wheelchair to transport her off the court. The crowd, showing their support, erupted in applause and chants of “Red Panda” as she was wheeled away.
According to an arena employee who spoke with The Athletic, Niu was subsequently taken to a hospital by ambulance. Details regarding the severity of her injuries have not yet been disclosed.
A Storied Career in Acrobatics
Rong Niu, a fourth-generation acrobat originally from China, has captivated audiences worldwide with her unique performances. Beginning her career at the tender age of 12, she joined an acrobatic troupe at 14, touring across Asia, Europe, and Africa. Her first NBA game performance for the Los Angeles Clippers in 1993 marked the start of her rise to fame, as she became a staple at both professional and collegiate sporting events.
Her act, involving a custom-built 7-foot unicycle and a mesmerizing bowl-flipping routine, has earned her a dedicated fan base. In a 2019 interview with Sports Illustrated, Niu shared her philosophy:
“If you think at the beginning you can’t do it, if you put your hard work and your heart in there and you like it and you want to do something different from most people, keep working on it.”
Her perseverance and dedication have inspired many, reflecting the teachings of her father who encouraged her to defy expectations.
Support from the Sports Community
Following the incident, the sports community rallied around Niu. After the game, which saw the Indiana Fever secure a 74-59 victory and a $500,000 prize, players like Caitlin Clark expressed their support through social media. During Syd Colson’s Instagram live stream, Clark conveyed heartfelt wishes, stating, “We love you, Red Panda!”
Niu’s influence extends beyond the basketball court. She appeared on popular talent shows such as “America’s Got Talent” and “Britain’s Got Talent,” reaching the semifinals in both. Her resilience was also demonstrated in 2018 when her cherished unicycle, valued at $25,000, was stolen at a San Francisco airport. The Golden State Warriors later gifted her a replacement, underscoring the deep appreciation and respect she commands within the sports community.
The Road to Recovery
The incident at the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup highlights the physical demands and risks associated with performance art. As fans and fellow performers await updates on her condition, Niu’s legacy as a trailblazer in acrobatics remains undisputed.
Her story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in the face of adversity. As the sports world sends its well-wishes, the hope is that Red Panda will soon return to the stage, continuing to inspire with her extraordinary talent and indomitable spirit.
For now, the focus remains on her recovery, with fans eager to see her back in action. The incident underscores the unpredictable nature of live performances and the resilience required to overcome setbacks.
