Shiny sneakers aren’t just for rappers anymore. While Drake’s gold OVOs and Usher’s reflective chrome Jordans have grabbed attention in recent years, it’s NBA superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who just took flashy sneakers to the next level. After leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to their first NBA title, Converse surprised Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with a one-of-one “Trophy Gold” edition of his signature sneaker, the Converse Shai 001.
The moment couldn’t have been more cinematic. Game Seven had just wrapped. Confetti still floated through the air. Before Shai even touched the Larry O’Brien or Bill Russell trophies, Converse had their own crown waiting: a gleaming gold pair of sneakers to match the hardware he’d just earned.
This was no regular Finals MVP moment either. And Converse knows this. “Shai represents everything Converse Basketball stands for — creativity, confidence and a fearless approach to the game,” said Jared Carver, Converse’s president and CEO. And it shows, not just in his play but in his design choices.
SGA, who serves as Converse Basketball’s creative director, has been hands-on with his debut silhouette. First revealed in February, the Converse Shai 001 dropped in a smooth monochrome “Butter” colorway, a nod to his silky on-court style. Since then, fans have spotted him rocking all-black, sky blue, and muted grey versions. “Trophy Gold” is now the fifth colorway, though you’ll have a better chance finding Bigfoot than buying that one at retail. It’s strictly one-of-one.
The design of the Shai 001 silhouette includes a zip-up shroud that can be styled multiple ways, and under the hood, Nike’s Air Zoom unit brings that familiar bounce.
The Converse Shai 001 in “Butter” is set to hit Converse’s site and select retailers this fall for $130. And while you won’t get your hands on the gold Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sneaker, the chance to step into the same silhouette as one of the league’s coldest players is a solid consolation prize.
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