Fact Check: Did Josh Giddey get his own signature shoe? Debunking viral post making the rounds on social media
Since the controversy involving Josh Giddey and an allegedly underage girl emerged online, he has faced significant backlash on social media. Amid Australia's Olympic campaign, a post on X (formerly Twitter) by NBA Centel, a parody account, claimed that the new Chicago Bull has a signature shoe called the "UNDA 15" and suggested it is available at Kids Foot Locker.
While some found the post amusing, it is untrue and should be debunked. Josh Giddey does not have a new signature shoe. The name of the fake shoe, "UNDA 15," is a reference to the alleged inappropriate relationship with a minor, with "under 15" being a pun.
NBA Centel is known for its parody content, which can sometimes be mistaken for legitimate news.
The shoe shown in the graphic is actually a customizable model available on Alibaba and listed for just under $50 on eBay as “Men's Basketball Shoes Breathable Non-slip Outdoor Athletic Fashion Sports Shoes.”
Josh Giddey signed with Nike during his rookie year and has worn their shoes for all his NBA games. However, he does not have a signature shoe.
In March, the NBA closed its investigation into Josh Giddey regarding allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a minor following the Newport Beach Police Department's announcement in January that Giddey would not face charges.
“After a thorough and exhaustive examination, we have completed our investigation into information that was circulating on social media involving Josh Giddey,” Newport police said in a statement.
“Our detectives have reviewed all of the available information and were unable to corroborate any criminal activity related to Mr. Giddey.”
Looking at Josh Giddey’s performance so far in the Paris Olympics
As the starting point guard for Team Australia in the Paris Olympics, Josh Giddey has been making notable contributions for the Boomers. After being traded from the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Chicago Bulls, he has shown strong performances ahead of his debut for his new NBA team.
In their opening game against Spain, Giddey scored 19 points on 6-for-12 shooting, including two three-pointers. He also recorded eight assists, two steals and eight rebounds in the Boomers' 92-80 win.
Giddey continued his strong play with another 19-point effort in a game against Canada, where he faced his former OKC teammates Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Lu Dort. He added seven rebounds and six assists to his tally in Australia’s 93-83 loss.
In their second consecutive loss to Greece, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, Giddey managed just nine points on 2-for-8 shooting but contributed 11 rebounds and six assists.
Australia finished in second place in Group A of the men’s basketball tournament. Canada led the group with a perfect 3-0 record, while Australia is second with a 1-2 record.
Greece and Spain were tied at 1-2, with Greece holding third place and Spain in fourth.