Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been nothing short of phenomenal this season. From earning 2024-25 NBA MVP honors to leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012, he has been on a tear.
While his performance on the court is turning heads, his footwear game is making just as much noise. The latest buzz is around his new Converse SHAI 001 sneakers, and fans are already scrambling for more details.
The New Version of Gilgeous-Alexander’s Signature Shoe: “SHAI 001: MASI BLUE”
Before the biggest series of his career, Gilgeous-Alexander debuted the “SHAI 001: Masai Blue” ahead of Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The new version is a heartfelt tribute to his younger brother, with the icy blue tone reflecting his calm and collected nature.
SHAI 001: MASI BLUE.
Cooler than ice. A tribute to @shaiglalex’s brother Thomasi. pic.twitter.com/Cq0fY51W70
— Converse (@Converse) June 4, 2025
The SHAI 001 isn’t just sentimental — it’s built for serious hoopers. One standout design feature is the zipper closure, which combines with an internal slipper system and a ghillie lacing setup to give players a snug, adjustable fit.
The shoe also has a futuristic one-piece molded construction that makes it look like it’s straight out of tomorrow. Underfoot, a Nike Zoom Air unit in the forefoot, adds bounce and responsiveness, giving players extra pop on drives and cuts.
While a specific release date for the SHAI 001 hasn’t been announced yet, Converse has confirmed it will come out this fall. The shoe will cost $130 and be available for purchase through the Converse online store.
With Gilgeous-Alexander dominating on the court and making waves off it, the SHAI 001 is more than just a sneaker — it’s a statement.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Relationship With Converse
Gilgeous-Alexander’s relationship with Converse has evolved throughout his NBA career, which began in 2018.
During the summer of 2020, he joined Converse on a multi-year deal, becoming one of the faces of the brand along with Draymond Green and Kelly Oubre Jr. In 2024, he signed an extension and became Creative Director of Converse Basketball.
During NBA All-Star Weekend 2025, Gilgeous-Alexander officially debuted his first signature shoe — the butter-colored SHAI 001.
“I poured my heart and soul into the SHAI 001, and I’m proud to share it with the world. From performance to design, every aspect of this shoe reflects my passion for the game and my commitment to pushing its boundaries,” he said via Nike. “We made the SHAI 001 a versatile shoe for everyone — from the athlete who’s in the gym three times a day to the kids who just want to express themselves on or off the court.”
Since then, the SHAI 001 has evolved into more than just a shoe — it’s become a personal statement for Gilgeous-Alexander. Each color has honored someone close to him. The “Charm Black” version was dedicated to his mother, while the “Ares Grey” was inspired by his firstborn son’s eyes.