Two-Time NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Signs Basketball Shoe Deal with Nike

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has been named the National Basketball Association (NBA) Most Valuable Player (MVP) for two consecutive years, is switching his basketball shoe brand from Converse to Nike.

Bloomberg reported on June 18 (KST) that Nike announced the signing of Oklahoma City Thunder guard Gilgeous-Alexander ahead of its fourth-quarter earnings report scheduled for the 30th.

Gilgeous-Alexander was named the NBA regular season MVP in 2026, following his win in 2025.

He had previously signed with Converse in 2024, even taking on a role to help shape the brand's basketball shoe design and direction. However, he is moving his contract to Nike, the parent company of Converse, after just two years.

Converse, which has a history spanning over 100 years, was acquired by Nike in 2003 but continues to operate as a subsidiary while maintaining its own independent brand identity.

Bloomberg projected that Converse, which is experiencing severe sales slumps this year, will take a significant hit due to the departure of its marquee athlete, Gilgeous-Alexander.

(Photo: Getty Images Korea)
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