Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sends huge gift package to Vinicius Jr ahead of World Cup
Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Vinicius Jr have built a visible friendship across sports. The NBA star and the Real Madrid forward are often seen together. Vinicius, a two-time Champions League winner, has grown into one of football’s defining figures.
Gilgeous-Alexander has followed a similar trajectory in basketball, emerging as one of the NBA’s standout performers. Their connection continues to produce moments that extend beyond competition. The latest example centres on the Canadian star’s first signature shoe and a gesture that quickly drew attention online.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sends 14 pairs of SHAI 001 to Vinicius Jr Photo by Octavio Passos – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images Vinicius Jr revealed on Instagram that Gilgeous-Alexander sent him multiple pairs of the SHAI 001, his debut signature basketball shoe created in collaboration with Converse. Last Wednesday, the Brazilian posted an image showing a signed pair, with several others visible in the background. The total number reached 14 pairs, suggesting that two of each colourway were included.
The gesture highlights the close relationship between the two athletes. At the time, Vinicius was in the United States during the international window. Brazil played friendlies against France and Croatia there as part of their World Cup preparation, though he was not seen alongside Gilgeous-Alexander.
Instead, he met Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker, which also underlines his growing links within the NBA community. Despite receiving the full set, Vinicius is unlikely to wear the shoes in public. He is sponsored by Nike, which limits his ability to showcase products from competing brands.