A few weeks back, it was reported that Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was next in line to receive a signature shoe deal.
It was thought that Gilgeous-Alexander would become a shoe/apparel free agent following the expiration of his contract this year, but Converse never let him hit the open market.
In a historic deal, the company announced it had reached a multiyear extension with Gilgeous-Alexander, naming him the new Creative Director of Converse basketball.
“At Converse, we serve the creators. And Shai embodies every sense of the word. He is constantly pushing the edge of style, whether through his incredible play on the court, or his personal creativity off the court. This expanded partnership is a natural progression of our collaboration, and we look forward to introducing Shai’s signature line and creating the next phase of Converse Basketball, together,” Converse CEO Jared Carver said in a statement published by Shams Charania of The Athletic.
The partnership has always seemed like a match made in heaven. With Gilgeous-Alexander’s affinity for fashion, and Converse’s reputation as a brand that pushes the boundaries, especially in the basketball space, it always made sense that the two would come to a long-term agreement.
Gilgeous-Alexander becomes the first athlete to get a signature shoe with Converse since Elton Brand, and he will also be releasing a line of signature apparel with the brand. Both are expected to be released sometime in 2025.
