Character profile
Hanamichi Sakuragi
桜木花道Tensai Baskettoman / The Rebound King / Basket Genius
Biography
Hanamichi Sakuragi begins as a red-haired slacker with self-confidence bordering on arrogance and little basketball experience. His immediate crush on Haruko Akagi leads him to join Shohoku's team. Despite his height, athleticism, stamina, speed and leaping ability, he initially struggles to keep up with his teammates.
Story spoilers
Sakuragi develops from a foul-prone beginner into a formidable rebounder and later trains intensively on his jump shot. Against Sannoh, he hits the winning buzzer-beater but also injures his back. His injury makes him realize that he has genuinely come to love basketball.
5 credits