UPDATE: Red Panda, the beloved unicycle performer, is on the road to recovery and plans to make her triumphant return during the 2025-26 men’s and women’s college basketball and NBA seasons. Just months after suffering a serious wrist injury in July 2023, Rong Niu has issued a heartfelt message to her supporters: “I’m coming back!”
Niu, known for her incredible act of tossing bowls onto her head while balancing on a 7-foot unicycle, suffered her injury during a halftime show at the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup game between the Indiana Fever and Minnesota Lynx. The fall resulted in a significant wrist injury that required extensive surgery, sidelining her for the rest of the WNBA season.
In a recent statement, her agent, Pat Figley, confirmed that Niu is already back in practice and actively preparing for her return. “We are sending out this note to thank everyone for their heartfelt wishes to Red Panda for a speedy recovery,” Figley noted. “It was a very serious injury and she did require surgery. She is healing well and is looking forward to performing this season.”
The news of Niu’s recovery comes as a relief to her many fans who have missed her spectacular performances during basketball games across the country. Fans would often choose to stay in their seats rather than head to the restroom or concession stands to catch a glimpse of her act. Her return is highly anticipated as she has become a staple of entertainment during halftime shows.
While Niu does not have a specific return date yet, her progress indicates she is on track for a comeback in the upcoming months. “She appreciates all the sincere follow-up from fans. It was amazing and very touching,” Figley added, underscoring the emotional support Niu has received during her recovery.
As Niu continues to heal, basketball enthusiasts and fans of her unique performance are eagerly awaiting her return to the court. This developing story is one to watch as Red Panda prepares to reclaim her spot in the spotlight, bringing joy and excitement back to basketball games nationwide.
