Calm Under Pressure: The Converse SHAI 001 'Steel' Stays Cool

As Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder gear up to face the Los Angeles Lakers for Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals, Converse have unveiled the next colourway of Shai’s signature shoe. Going head-to-head against LeBron James will require a lot of composure, but the upcoming SHAI 001 Premium ‘Steel’ colourway is showing that SGA is up for the task.

If there’s anyone with nerves of steel in the NBA Playoffs, you can bet that it’s Shai, as the 2025 MVP and Finals MVP slices through defenders with ease to get the bucket. That determination and sharpness is embodied through the metallic silver finish across the entire silhouette, swapping out the usual materials for a tumbled leather that stretches to the typically TPU heel unit. This version of the SHAI 001 carries the same ‘Premium’ moniker as the previous ‘Ink’ iteration, setting a standard of only donning the best quality while competing on the hardwood.

SGA is expected to break out this flashy pair to kick off the round versus the Lakers, just as he did with the ‘Ink’ colourway at the start of the Phoenix Suns series – and rumours are circulating that Shai may debut his second signature shoe if OKC moves on to the Finals.

The Converse SHAI 001 Premium ‘Steel’ is set to release on June 11 via Converse’s website, SNKRS, and select retailers, for a price of $150.

Looking to reminisce on the old days of stiff competition in the NBA? Check out the recent velcro-strapped rework of the Converse Weapon.