In April 2024, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander became the new Creative Director of Basketball at Converse. But this deal wasn’t just a run-of-the-mill endorsement. No, it gave Shai “ creative control over the design” of his signature line of shoes. And the Shai 001s haven’t missed so far. But as we head into the NBA Finals, you may notice something different about the 2025 NBA MVP’s shoes.

Now, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Converse combined to release the Shai 001 back in February. The Nike website called the shoes “a symphony of contrasts — tough and elegant, powerful and precise.” The shoes were an instant hit as fans gravitated towards the unique design that SGA put out. And for Game 1 of the NBA Finals, these collaborators have something special in store.

SGA’s signature shoe for the NBA

See Full Page