Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander unveils his first signature shoe with Converse, marking a milestone in his five-year partnership with the brand. The SHAI 001 will make its debut during the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco.
The shoe's development reflects Gilgeous-Alexander's direct involvement, from initial concept sketches to final design approval. His influence extends beyond athlete input - in December 2023, Converse appointed him creative director of their basketball division and introduced his personal logo.
The SHAI 001 features a distinctive design with a puffed upper construction and winged shroud details. Technical specifications include a forefoot Zoom Air unit, radial traction pattern, and an adaptable zipper system that can be worn in multiple positions. The debut colorway, dubbed "Butter" presents the shoe in a uniform yellow finish.
The shoe's construction emphasizes functionality for quick directional changes and acceleration - elements central to Gilgeous-Alexander's playing style. Converse utilized both their own and Nike's engineering resources in developing the performance aspects of the model.
Additional features include enhanced padding on the SGA-branded tongue and an internal bootie with a Ghillie lacing system for secure fit. While the full retail release is scheduled for fall 2024, basketball fans can preview the SHAI 001 at a dedicated pop-up studio in San Francisco during All-Star Weekend.
This release represents Converse's continued investment in basketball, building on their Weapon campaign which featured Gilgeous-Alexander as the primary ambassador. The company plans to introduce more colorways throughout the upcoming NBA season.
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Eric Grischott
Born in Groningen in 1991, Eric Grischott is a linguist with a deep-rooted passion for art, music, and fashion. His academic journey led him to graduate in languages, further enriching his linguistic prowess. His thirst for knowledge and cultural immersion took him abroad, where he gained invaluable experience and insights. Eric’s linguistic expertise is not confined to just theory. He has honed his skills in French and German through specialized DELF and DELE courses, demonstrating his commitment to mastering these languages. His passions extend beyond languages, encompassing the creative realms of art, the rhythmic world of music, and the dynamic sphere of fashion.