1. Hanamichi Sakuragi:
A tall, athletic high school student with a reputation as a delinquent.
Joins the Shohoku High School basketball team to impress a girl, Haruko Akagi, despite initially knowing nothing about basketball.
Known for his red hair, brash personality, and remarkable physical abilities, which he gradually refines into basketball skills.
2. Kaede Rukawa:
A first-year student and Hanamichi's rival, both on and off the court.
Highly talented and skilled, with dreams of becoming a professional basketball player.
Cool, aloof, and often seen as a basketball prodigy.
3. Takenori Akagi:
The captain of the Shohoku basketball team and a third-year student.
Known as the "Gorilla" due to his imposing physical presence and serious demeanor.
Passionate about basketball and dreams of leading Shohoku to the national championships.
4. Hisashi Mitsui:
A third-year student and former MVP of his middle school basketball team.
Rejoins the team after a period of delinquency, demonstrating his excellent shooting skills.
Struggles with his past and works hard to regain his place in the team.
5. Ryota Miyagi:
A second-year student and the point guard for Shohoku.
Fast, agile, and an excellent ball handler, recovering from injuries that previously sidelined him.
Develops a close friendship with Hanamichi and has a complex relationship with Ayako, the team manager.
6. Kiminobu Kogure:
A third-year student and vice-captain of the Shohoku team.
Often acts as the team’s strategist and mentor, providing support and guidance.
Not as athletically gifted as his teammates but valued for his experience and leadership.
These characters form the core of the Shohoku High School basketball team, each contributing their unique skills and personalities to the team's dynamic.
7. Haruko Akagi:
A first-year student at Shohoku High School and the younger sister of Takenori Akagi, the basketball team's captain.
Kind, cheerful, and passionate about basketball, she recognizes Hanamichi's potential and encourages him to join the team.
Hanamichi's main love interest, although she has a crush on Kaede Rukawa.
Plays an essential role in motivating Hanamichi and supporting the team throughout their journey.