NBA Champion Isaiah Hartenstein Joins Team Skechers
SPORTS
Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein now commands the court in Skechers Basketball shoes.
The world of basketball footwear is witnessing a dynamic shift, driven by a new generation of players prioritizing performance, comfort, and authenticity over traditional big-name endorsements. Cementing its rise as a serious competitor in the performance category, Skechers has announced a major signing: Isaiah Hartenstein, the championship center for the Oklahoma City Thunder, is officially joining Team Skechers.
This partnership with the seven-foot German-American powerhouse is more than just a deal—it’s a powerful validation of the Skechers Basketball line, underscoring the brand’s "Comfort That Performs" philosophy at the highest level of the sport.
The Champion’s Choice
Hartenstein, known for his relentless motor, versatility, and high basketball IQ, was an impact-making force throughout the Thunder's successful 2025 NBA Finals run. His choice of footwear is deliberate: he now dominates the court in the SKX NEXUS™, Skechers’ innovative court shoe designed for speed, stability, and support.
For Hartenstein, the decision was about aligning with a brand that shares his unique trajectory. “I teamed up with Skechers because they're a brand with a plan that's doing things their unique way, which I love,” Hartenstein stated. “Skechers Basketball shoes deliver the superior comfort and performance I need, so I look forward to showing fans from OKC to back home in Germany how they're giving me more confidence on the court."
Hartenstein’s journey, which began in German youth leagues before spanning multiple NBA teams and culminating in a championship, reflects the determination the brand aims to embody.
A Roster Built for Excellence
Skechers is rapidly assembling a formidable roster of elite athletes who are challenging the established basketball apparel hierarchy. Hartenstein joins an already impressive lineup that includes NBA stars like Joel Embiid, OG Anunoby, and Julius Randle, alongside top WNBA talent such as Jackie Young, a 2025 champion herself.
Ben Stewart, Vice President of Skechers Technical Performance Division, emphasized why Hartenstein is a perfect fit: “As Skechers is worn by players at the top of their game, a reigning champion like Isaiah Hartenstein is a perfect fit for our elite Skechers roster. Through his career, Hartenstein has evolved into a pivotal player and an essential part of a championship team's success. That focus and determination is also key to our Comfort That Performs mantra.”
Fans can expect to see Hartenstein featured prominently in upcoming marketing campaigns for the Skechers Basketball line, showcasing how the brand is fueling elite performance on the international stage as well as in the NBA. This partnership confirms Skechers’ commitment to innovation and its bold entry into the world of top-tier performance basketball.