Game 1 of the NBA Finals isn’t just a big stage for basketball — it’s also the on-court debut of a major sneaker moment. Tyrese Haliburton is officially lacing up the PUMA Hali 1, his first signature sneaker, crafted in collaboration with acclaimed designer Salehe Bembury.
The Hali 1 arrives in a bold Hibiscus colorway, combining high-performance tech with Bembury’s instantly recognizable design language. It marks a major milestone not just for Haliburton, but for PUMA’s continued push into elite basketball footwear.
Designed by Salehe Bembury, Engineered by PUMA
The PUMA Hali 1 blends Salehe Bembury’s trailblazing aesthetic with modern basketball engineering. The sculpted midsole, reminiscent of his Crocs Juniper collab, gives the shoe its signature silhouette — form-meets-function with a sculptural twist.
Under the hood, the Hali 1 is powered by PUMA’s NITRO™ cushioning, offering lightweight responsiveness ideal for quick cuts, fast breaks, and fluid transitions. The outsole features a herringbone tread pattern for traction, while what appears to be an internal plate boosts stability for guards who play at a high pace — exactly Haliburton’s game.
Material Innovation and Player Identity
The upper construction is a mix of patterned mesh for breathability, encased by a futuristic TPU support cage. The PUMA Big Cat logo stands out boldly, while Haliburton’s personal PUMA logo sits proudly on the tongue. Just beneath that sits a layer of open mesh for ventilation and comfort.
The toe area is reinforced with dual protective overlays, adding durability where it’s needed most — perfect for players who grind hard in the paint and on the perimeter.
This is more than a signature shoe. It’s a visual identity — a blend of Bembury’s design culture, Haliburton’s fearless style of play, and PUMA’s performance DNA.
The Journey to Hali 1
This release has been in the works for over a year. After Haliburton left Nike and signed with PUMA in October 2024, buzz began to build around his first signature model. Simultaneously, Bembury joined PUMA with the express purpose of crafting a shoe for the brand’s next breakout star.
The result? A sneaker that breaks mold and expectations — and brings a fresh voice to the hardwood.
Release Info
The PUMA Hali 1 will see a full release this September via puma.com and select PUMA Hoops retail partners. Pricing has yet to be announced, but demand is already heating up following its NBA Finals spotlight.
For fans of elite performance, progressive sneaker design, or simply rooting for Haliburton’s meteoric rise — this is a drop worth watching.
