In a world where NBA players often receive exclusive sneaker drops before they hit shelves, Nickeil Alexander-Walker flipped the script. The Atlanta Hawks guard and cousin of reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander waited a full 12 hours in the rain outside KITH Toronto, not for hype, not for clout, but for love.
For those calling cap on Nickeil Alexander-Walker camping out for the Converse Shai 001 🤣 @_BryanChow https://t.co/NmFZCYz4aS pic.twitter.com/YkwteDRe2W
— Nice Kicks (@nicekicks) September 5, 2025
The first person in line to purchase Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s first Converse shoe in Toronto:
His cousin, Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
He told me he’s been here since the last night waiting in line. pic.twitter.com/8Bxi0PYLSA
— Libaan Osman (@libaanstar1) September 4, 2025
The occasion? The release of Shai’s debut signature sneaker, the Converse Shai 001 in the buttery smooth “Butter” colorway. Fans lined up in droves, but none were more committed than Nickeil, who camped out overnight to be first in line. Wearing a pair of the shoes he’d already received from Shai, Nickeil told reporters the experience was “nostalgic,” reminding him of childhood campouts for Jordan releases.
“It hits a little different when it’s your best friend’s shoe,” Nickeil said, soaking wet but beaming with pride.
He waited 12 HOURS IN THE RAIN to be the first person to buy a pair of his cousin’s shoes! 🥹🤝
Atlanta Hawks’ Nickeil Alexander-Walker was the first person in line at KITH Toronto for the Converse SHAI 001 🔥 https://t.co/MXiw0bahRj pic.twitter.com/jwncoz6dxF
— Nice Kicks (@nicekicks) September 4, 2025
Shai himself showed up at the store and personally handed Nickeil the first retail pair, a moment that melted sneakerheads and basketball fans alike. Despite already owning several pairs, Nickeil wanted to honor the moment and the journey his cousin had taken to reach this milestone.
The SHAI 001 features a puffed upper, stitch-less molding, and a sleek zipper enclosure, blending performance with streetwear elegance. It sold out within minutes online, further cementing Shai’s status not just as a basketball icon, but a fashion force.
