On June 5, 2025, Tyrese Haliburton hit a game-winning three-point buzzer-beater from over halfcourt—victory secured! He wore his new signature shoe, the Puma Hali 1 “Hibiscus,” in his first game in the Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The game at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City wasn’t just another game for Haliburton, whose Indiana Pacers emerged victorious in an exciting 111-110 game. Haliburton capped the victory with a jaw-dropping game-winner draped in the must-have sneakers.
The launch of the Puma Hali 1 is a timely tie-in with Haliburton’s blockbuster October 2024 endorsement deal with Puma. This unprecedented collaboration led to the development of his signature shoe. It had its thrilling introduction at the F1-like 2025 NBA Finals. Fans are clamoring to purchase the Puma Hali 1, but it hasn’t been released for retail just yet. It is most recently scheduled to open in the fall of 2025, perfectly timed for the new NBA season.
At a post-game news conference, Haliburton proudly showcased his sneakers and began to pepper them with praise, casually calling them “these” at one point. We could feel his enthusiasm through the screen as he cheered for his own success and the debut of his new kicks.
“It’s gotta be the shoooeeesss,” – Tyrese Haliburton
The Puma Hali 1, tailored in size 14, built for Haliburton’s tall and light on his feet stature and style of play. The sneakers tell the story of Haliburton’s phenomenal year-to-date personal success. They represent a big win for Puma as the brand continues to build its presence in the highly competitive basketball shoe scene.
Intense as the matchup with the Thunder might have been, this was still a historical occasion. It featured the likes of Tyrese Haliburton and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the latter of whom proudly debuted his own signature shoe, the Converse SHAI 001, throughout the series. It is just the second time in NBA history that two players have matched up in the Finals and done so in their first signature shoes. This milestone serves to underscore the importance of the event, not just for athletes but for their brands as well.
Denise Thrasher, an official with Puma, said they were proud of Haliburton’s accomplishment. She pointed to what his presence on the court meant while donning Puma gear when hitting such a historic note.
“It’s an absolute honor for Puma to have been represented on that court as Tyrese made history,” – Denise Thrasher
The hype drawn in by Haliburton’s play on court and his upcoming signature shoe hasn’t escaped the attention of card companies. Retiring Hall of Fame basketball legend Isiah Thomas weighed in, highlighting the importance of players endorsing footwear that fits with their personal branding.
“I won a lot of games in my Pumas,” – Isiah Thomas
Haliburton, meanwhile, has been a star in his second season. His jaw-dropping maneuvers and poise when the lights shine brightest have received just as much hype. This season, he says, has changed him. On the field, he has proved his talent and safely etched his name as a league marquee player.
Rodney Rambo, sales rep for Converse, pointed to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s continued rise in the NBA ranks.
“It’s been an incredible year for Shai, showcasing his talent and proving himself as a marquee player in the league,” – Rodney Rambo
He congratulated Haliburton on their tremendous accomplishments. It’s always thrilling to see a player hit milestones like this right before their signature shoes drop!
“Seeing Shai reach this point before his signature shoe, the SHAI 001, launching this fall is remarkable,” – Rodney Rambo
With the NBA Finals still going strong, all eyes will be on both players and their trailblazing signature sneakers. The enthusiasm around Puma Hali 1 and Converse SHAI 001 extends past footwear. These sneakers are a sign of brighter days ahead for basketball athletes as they much more actively and effectively explore alternative avenues in an ever-crowded space.
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