In recent years, sports anime has continued to attract the interest of fans worldwide. This is because most people can relate to the protagonist’s love for a sport or drive to get better at it. Unlike most genres, these protagonists are unique in their own way, each driving towards a specific goal. Even if they don’t start as the best players, their passion for the game is usually the primary driving force for their team and the show. Their journey inspires fans and lets them live vicariously through them. In that regard, here are some of the best sports anime protagonists.
Hanamichi Sakuragi, Slam Dunk
While Sakuragi didn’t start as an avid sports lover, his love for Haruko was enough to get him involved. Sakuragi was a high school delinquent with only a known talent for fighting and unpopularity with girls. He was commonly teased for being rejected by 50 girls. He also profoundly hated basketball, as the 50th girl had rejected him to date a basketballer. Then he meets Haruko, and he falls in love with her at first sight. She asks him if he likes basketball, and he decides to give basketball a chance for his newfound love interest. He is one of the most interesting sports anime protagonists.
Makunouchi Ippo, Hajime no Ippo
Hajime no Ippo is one of the best sports animes in the world today. It shows the importance of hard work and determination and how they play a big part in accomplishing your goals. Makunochi Ippo starts as a shy boy who just helped his mother with her boat business. After being saved by novice boxer Mamoru Takamura from a group of bullies, he follows Takamura to the gym, where he decides to become a professional boxer. Despite having no natural talent for boxing at the beginning, his determination was second to none.
Tetsuya Kuroko, Kuroko no Basket
Tetsuya is easily one of the best and most relatable sports anime protagonists. His entire playstyle existed to put others in the limelight while he remained in the shadows. As depressing as that sounds, it turned out to be a rather interesting role. He exists for the team; his misdirections and passes made him an instant fan favorite. His weird sense of humor and personality make him one of the more exciting sports anime protagonists.
Yoichi Isagi, Blue Lock
Blue Lock is one of the best new-gen anime in the world today. With a protagonist like Yoichi Isagi, it’s really no surprise. Yoichi Isagi is one of the footballers scouted for the Bluelock, a project to produce the best striker. Despite being ranked second to last initially, his determination to change and fight the strong makes him a joy to watch. Isagi learned how to develop an ego and fully embrace it to become one of Blue Lock’s most formidable players. Isagi took evolving to a whole new level, devouring strong players and using people he deems necessary to win. He is the embodiment of everything you want in a sports anime protagonist.
Hinata Shoyo, Haikyuu!!
Haikyuu!! is still hailed as the best sports anime in the world today. Hinata’s journey to being the world’s best volleyball player is inspiring and relatable. Hinata Shoyo is a short high schooler who aspires to play volleyball against the best players. Despite his short stature and lack of technical abilities, Hinata possessed insane agility and speed, making him a formidable opponent. His speed and quick dashes earned him the title of the greatest decoy. Hinata’s journey to the top was anything but easy, as his lack of skills and height always made him a point of criticism. However, his love for the game never made him think of quitting; instead, it propelled him to new heights.
