Sneaker News Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Converse have officially revealed a first look at the OKC Thunder superstar’s debut signature shoe-the Converse SHAI 001. It’s vital to the NBA’s most fashionable man to have a signature basketball shoe that looks good off the court. and for someone as meticulous with his tunnel outfits as he is with his offensive attacks, Shai is looking to break the trend of performance footwear being limited within the court and bring to market a high-performing sneaker that is actually wearable with civilian clothing.
You’ve heard over and over again how closely a brand works with an athlete to create a new shoe. Typically, the athlete communicates what they want and the designers come back with some options. Shai took matters into his own hands by providing his own sketches. “I’ve been working with top athletes for 20 years in this field, and I’ve never met an athlete that can sketch like Shai” says Steven Keating, Converse Design Director.
A signature shoe was confirmed back in April of last year when Shai signed a lucrative, multi-year extension with the brand. Later in December 2024, his brand logo was officially revealed.
As the lone signature athlete for Converse Hoops, Shai stands to be a key figure in rebuilding the brand’s presence in the sport while luring in other talent to join the team.
Below are official photos of the Shai 001 “Butter”; it features a “puffed” upper with stitch-less molding, a zipper enclosure, and minimal branding. Shai’s logo appears on the tongue, while a new radial traction pattern supports Shai’s super-versatile movements on the court.
The Converse SHAI 001 debut comes right at the start of NBA All-Star Weekend; named a Starter for the Western Conference and garnering the most votes by a backcourt player, Shai is the perfect individual to galvanize a brand that predates all the major players in the game.
Shai will debut the new signature model during the All-Star Game in the “Butter” colorway; the shoe itself will release this Fall 2025. It features Zoom Air cushioning
