The Converse SHAI 001 Lace Up Debuts On August 14th

The Oklahoma City Thunder’s offseason so far has been one of cost-cutting, reshaping a roster to fit league constraints while still keeping the talent level around the reigning MVP commensurate with their perennial contender status. Off the court, the world of SGA has seen a major shake-up as well, as the Canadian product plots a swap from Converse to Nike even in the wake of breakout success for his first silhouette.

How SGA will factor into the Swoosh’s stacked signature shoe catalog remains one of the more intriguing questions in the landscape. Yet before a Nike Shai shoe hits the scene, there’s still more to behold from his partnership with the Boston brand. Intermittently teased in the months leading up, the Converse SHAI 001 Lace Up has now been officially announced, shifting to a more conventional build that ditches the covered, zippered shroud. Additionally, this new composition will mark the first time that the SHAI 001 will be available in kids’ sizing, no doubt a play to build on his sturdy fanbase among the younger demographic.

Two of the colorways we had seen in Gilgeous-Alexander’s “tunnel fits” are included here: a “Berry” pink pair that contrasts that vibrancy with beige collars, and a “Cheetah” edition that builds out a tri-tone layout with tan foundations and volt interplay. Rounding out the set is a volt/grey pair that capitalizes on the same two-tone blocking but with an eccentric combination befitting one of the league’s most expressive dressers.

For those who pay attention to the “palace intrigue,” this official announcement is a chance for SGA to speak on his signature line crossing the hall to Beaverton. Of the move from the Star to the Swoosh, Gilgeous-Alexander shared:

“I’m excited for what’s ahead as I begin this new chapter with Nike. Before I turn the page, I still have a few things to finish with Converse. I’m proud of what we’ve built and look forward to seeing those pairs out in the world before embracing what’s next.”

To wit, the Converse SHAI 001 Lace Up drops in the “Lime” and “Berry” colorways on August 14th. The “Cheetah” follows on September 3rd. Adult pairs will be available for $120, while the newly introduced kids’ pairs will clock in at $100.