Slam DunkSakuragi Hanamichi is a junior high punk used to getting into fights and being rejected by girls but upon entering high school he meets the girl of his dreams, Haruko Akagi. He will do anything in order to win her heart including joining the school basketball team that is aiming to conquer the nation lead by Haruko's brother. The problem is that Sakuragi has never played basketball before and a freshman sensation is stealing the spotlight and Haruko's affection from him.
WritersNobuaki Kishima, Takehiko Inoue
The Birth of a Genius Basketman?!?
Oct 16, 1993
After being dumped by Yoko, a girl he really liked in Junior High, Sakuragi Hanamichi was devastated. On the first day of school, he was approached by a girl who asked him whether he likes basketball or not. He immediately said he loves it although he has no idea how to play the sport. His world is filled with hope again.
Die Basketball! Hanamichi vs. Rukawa
Oct 30, 1993
After Rukawa beats up those thugs, Hanamichi is shocked and asks him for his name. When he discovers that he is the one that Haruko has a crush on, he becaomes angry. Then, Haruko comes and helps Rukawa with his wounds, but he dismisses her and this makes Hanamichi very angry. Haruko mistakes Hanamichi for injuring Rukawa and she says that she hates Hanamichi. Hanamichi's world comes tumbling down again.
Gorilla vs. Hanamichi! Big Showdown!
Nov 6, 1993
When Hanamichi calls basketball a 'dumb game', the captain of the basketball team challenges him because Hanamichi had made fun of his favorite game of all!
Basketball Man Hanamichi Joins the Team
Nov 13, 1993
Sakuragi mananges to dunk over/through Akagi. Akagi is intrigued by Sakuragi's raw power, but doesn't think he's got the drive to make it on the team. Still, he ponders what the team would be like if he was to join.
A Gutless Afternoon
Nov 20, 1993
Sakuragi Hanamichi has been training in the basics for two weeks under Ayako and he wants to play with the other. Akagi refused to let him play. Out of frustration, he quits the team. But after seeing Haruko's face, he changes his mind again.
Rukawa vs. Akagi. The Real Showdown!
Dec 4, 1993
Akagi decides to test Rukawa's skills against his own to see if Rukawa really has the talent everyone says he does.
Hanamichi's Debut! Dunk Attack
Dec 11, 1993
After successfully persuading Anzai to let him join the game, Sakuragi shows how much he has improved in basic skills such as dribbling. But in the game, he refuses to pass the ball to Rukawa out of jealousy.
Hanamichi's Crisis! The Judo Man's Snare
Dec 18, 1993
Impressed by Sakuragi's raw power and general brute force, the captain of the judo club tries to recruit him away from the Basketball team.
I Will Play Basketball!
Dec 25, 1993
Sakuragi declines Aota's offer of joining the Judo club. Kogure and Ayako were overjoyed at Sakuragi's refusal and Akagi was very much impressed by Sakuragi's words.
The 'Beginner's Shot' ....Is Hard!
Jan 8, 1994
After getting the permission to allow Sakuragi to learn the basics of shooting, Akagi asked Rukawa to demonstrate how to do lay-up shot. But Sakuragi got into a fight with Rukawa instead.
Special Secret Love Training for Two!?
Jan 15, 1994
Having mastered dribbling and passing, Sakuragi moves on to shooting, which is a lot harder than he had anticipated. Frustrated by his lack of skil, Sakuragi gets some extra help from an unlikely source: Haruko.
Beat Ryonan! Hard Training Before the Decisive Game
Jan 22, 1994
The night before their game with Ryounan, Akagi decides to try and teach Sakuragi basic defense, starting with rebounding. Learning quickly, Sakuragi impresses Akagi. After the practice session, Sakuragi encounters a scout from Ryounan, and fills him in on who the REAL star is.....
Shohoku vs Ryonan the Fired Up Captain!
Jan 29, 1994
Sakuragi is eager to play too, thinking of what Akagi has told him the previuos night. At Ryonan High, Anzai is greeted by Ryonan coach, Moichi Taoka. In the locker room, Anzai finally announces the starting five players who are Akagi, Yasuda, Shiozaki, Kogure and Rukawa.
Super Basketball Match! Ryonan's Attack of Angry Waves
Feb 5, 1994
Sakuragi keeps begging Anzai to let him join the game. At 14 mins, Ryonan has a 0-15 lead, with everyone cheering for Sendoh. Sendoh and Uozumi, both play briliantly. The first half ends with a score of 42-50.
Hanamichi's Nervous Big Start
Feb 12, 1994
Finally, Sakuragi got a chance to play when Akagi was hurt while playing. Now, there is only about 9 minutes left on the clock.
Who Is This Guy?! Taoka's Miscalculation
Feb 19, 1994
With just 8 minutes left in the second half, Ryonan is still leading. Taoka tells the Ryonan to continue to attack. Sakuragi plays whole-heartily and this impressed Sendoh.
Rebound King. Hanamichi Sakuragi's Agony
Feb 26, 1994
Ryonan is leading with 3 points ahead of Shohoku, Taoka said that the game will depends on how Sakuragi plays. Meanwhile, Sakuragi begins to realize how important rebounds are.
The Last Two Minutes! I'm Taking Sendo Down!
Mar 5, 1994
Sendoh is amazed at how good Shohoku has become, thus begins to take the game seriously. Anzai then, calls both Rukawa and Sakuragi to approach, to tell them of his plan.
Time Up! The Ryonan Game Is Over
Mar 12, 1994
Although Shohoku has lost the game, Sakuragi played very well for his first game. Sakuragi and Rukawa vowed that in their next game with Ryonan, they will beat Sendoh.
Basketball Shoes
Mar 19, 1994
The next day, Haruko has to accompany Sakuragi to the sports shop to buy a new pair of shoes because his old shoes are in a bad shape after the practice game with Ryonan.
Super Problems! Hanamichi vs. Miyagi
Mar 26, 1994
Ryota Miyagi returns to basketball after beening injured in a fight. Ayako heard rumors that Miyagi was back in school, so she decided to investigate. She brings along Sakuragi and see that Miyagi is into another fight realizing that Ayako and Sakuragi are together sparking jealously into his eyes which causes a problem. Will Miyagi and Sakuragi be able to coexist...
The Fool with the Worst Record, A Combination is Born
Apr 16, 1994
It seemed like a disaster for two trouble makers in Miyagi and Sakuragi to collide with each other, but it seems things hae turned out much better than expected.
Shohoku Basketball Team's Last Day
Apr 23, 1994
A former member of the Shohoku team returns with a major axe to grind, which spells doom for the team.
The Allies of Justice, Sakuragi's Army Visits
Apr 30, 1994
After Ayako was slapped by one of the invading students, Miyagi joined in the fight, as well as Rukawa. However, Tetsuo easily took both of them down. Sakuragi steps up to the plate, outnumbered. Things change when Sakuragi's friends appear in an unlikely fashion.
The Guy Who Wanted to Conquer the World
May 7, 1994
Mitsui and Tetsuo were defeated, but Mitsui still continued to fight. Though when Akagi enters, the atmosphere becomes dense. Akagi slaps Mitsui around. Kogure then informs everyone that Mitsui use to be an excellent basketball player, and was even on the team. Kogure then proceeds to tell the rise and downfall of Mitsui's basketball career.
Mitsui's Peak, Trouble at 15
May 14, 1994
It seems that Mitsui was once a great basketball player himself before High School. Though something happened during practice that changed his life forever.
I Want to Play Basketball!
May 21, 1994
After suffering through his horrible injury, Mitsui quit on basketball. Though two years later, in his attempt to sabotage Shohoku from participating in the tournament, his feelings for the sport are growing stronger once again.
The Beginning of Interhigh Preliminaries
May 28, 1994
The tournament is finally making its approach. Sakuragi is anxious to play against Sendo again, but Shohoku will have to deal with Miuradai first.
Hanamichi! Pennant Race Debut
Jun 18, 1994
The match starts, and Anzai refuses to put Sakuragi, Rukawa, Mitsui, and Miyagi, in the starting line-up. For what reason? As punishment for fighting. Will Anzai keep it like this for the entire game?
The Introspective Army's Big Counterattack
Jun 25, 1994
With four of Shohoku's best players finally entering in the game, the tables turn quickly as they narrow the lead down to only 2. Sakuragi was hacked on a play, giving him two shots at the freethrow line. Though things were tough for him, as nervousness broke his concentration, and his imagination started running wild.
Formidable Enemy Miuradai's Secret Weapon
Jul 2, 1994
Miuradai revealed a secret weapon of theirs that'll help them try and overcome Shohoku, and that's the ox Nato.
Genius Hanamichi! Certain Death Dunk
Jul 16, 1994
Miuradai started gaining control of the game, until Nato started finally guarding Rukawa instead of Sakuragi. Rukawa exploited his weakness, and this caused an instant shift, favouring Shohoku.
Walkout King!? Sakuragi's Righteousness
Aug 6, 1994
Shohoku's next match is against Gohoku. While they have been exceeding almost everyone's expectations, Sakuragi continues to be laughed at for his nonsensical and pointless fouls. He starts to realize that he might not be so great after all.
Gorilla's Initiation, Kill with Your Eyes!
Aug 20, 1994
Sakuragi and his fouling troubles continue. He unconsciously went to Akagi's house for help, and in order to help Sakuragi a little bit, Akagi gives him one piece of advice... instill his opponents with fear using his eyes. Sakuragi takes this too literally, with predictable results.
Hot Blooded Guys
Aug 27, 1994
Mitsui got himself caught up in a fight between Ryo and Tetsuo, and was eventually beaten himself. However, an unlikely Sakuragi pops out of nowhere, and comes to aid his teammate when trying to get to the gym.
A Well Seeded School, Enter Shoyo
Sep 3, 1994
Sakuragi is still upset at Akagi for telling him a false technique in defense, and tries harder the next game against Tsukubu. While he gets fouled out, he's improving rather quickly, and he'll need it against a powerhouse team like Shoyo, who's the second ranking team in the tournament.
Hanamichi's First Start
Sep 10, 1994
Anzai-sensei decides to start Sakuragi, much to everyone's shock. He figures that with his height and drive he'll be the perfect weapon to use against Shoyo.
Rukawa's Counterattack!
Sep 17, 1994
With the the Shohoku offense stalled by Shoyo's defense, Rukawa takes it upon himself to lead the offensive charge.
Lightning Flash Ryota!
Sep 24, 1994
With Rukawa taking the heat off of the rest of the team, Miyagi gets a chance to show off his skills as a point guard and his speed on the court.
Hanamichi the Genius shows off!
Oct 1, 1994
With Mitsui's 3 point shot, Shohoku finally caught up with Shoyo. It seemed like Fujima had enough, but Hanagata asked him to trust him for a little while longer. Fujima made a good decision in trusting his star center, for Shoyo pulled away from Shohoku again, creating another 10 point deficit.
Shoyo Coach Enters the Court
Oct 14, 1994
Driven hard by by Rukawa's offense and Sakuragi's rebounding, Fujima comes off the bench to lead his team to victory.
Shoyo Ace Fujima's Real Ability
Oct 15, 1994
Fujima is leading a strong charge for Shoyo against Shohoku, taking the lead once again. Though Shohoku has other problems besides Fujima; Mitsui is already very tired. Will Kogure be able to take his place?
Has Mitsui Reached His Limit!?
Oct 22, 1994
Shohoku's problems continue piling up. Mitsui can't get a 3 pointer to go in, forcing all the burden on Rukawa. Plus, Sakuragi is on the brink of fouling out, one more and he's gone. Is this the end for Shohoku?
Mitsui! Stormy 3 Points
Nov 3, 1994
Mitsui, reminiscing upon the past, gets the energy to play and lead his team. In just a matter of time, he scored 9 consecutive points thanks to his impressive shooting, but is it enough to overcome Shoyo?
Imminent Walkout!? Hanamichi's Pinch
Nov 26, 1994
While Mitsui has increased his efficiency during the game, Sakuragi still faces the brink of being dismissed. After a few destructive words from Rukawa, Sakuragi is fueled with fire.
Hanamichi, Hot Dunk
Dec 3, 1994
Thanks to a basket from Rukawa, Shohoku has finally taken the lead in a critical time. Sakuragi, wanting to feel important, jumped up at the same time as two opposing Shoyo players as he was going for the dunk. It seems like Sakuragi's long desire to perform a slam dunk will be fulfilled.
Challenge from a Rival
Dec 10, 1994
Shohoku has defeated Shoyo, and Sakuragi is quick to spread the word, especially after his ferocious slam dunk on Hanagata. It seems like Oda, a person that went to the same junior high as him, is going to be facing Kainan. They're also hoping to pull off an upset victory like Shohoku has.
The Guy Who Pledged to Defeat Kainan
Dec 17, 1994
Sakuragi skips practice in order to investigate on why Yohko was acting so strangely. When they get to Takezono, he is immediately met by hordes of girls who misjudge his delinquent looks as someone who came to beat up Oda in order to Sabotage Takezono's chances of beating Kainan.
Takezono, Last Fight
Dec 24, 1994
The match between Takezono and Kainan starts. Kainan only put in two starters the entire game, but it seemed like it was enough to take care of their opponents. That wasn't Takezono's only problem; Oda's injury remains ignorant to everyone but Yohko and Sakuragi, and it's clearly affecting his ability to play.
Challenge to the King
Jan 7, 1995
No description available.
Outside Accounts!? Hanamichi at His Best!
Jan 14, 1995
The match between Shohoku and Kainan has been tight and intense all the way through, but it was Sakuragi who stood out the most with his cocky attitude and amazing athleticism. However, Kainan's coach is planning something to get Sakuragi off the court.
Sakuragi's Confinement's Secret Weapon
Jan 21, 1995
Takato seemed to have devised the perfect plan to counter-attack against Sakuragi, which is sending in the extremely small and weak Miyamasu. In an unbelievable turn around, the plan worked in which Sakuragi was horrible embarassed, allowing Kainan to widen the gap. Rukawa however, seems to be heating up.
The Gorilla's Injury! Desperate Situation!?
Jan 28, 1995
Shohoku isn't about to let their chances slip away against Kainan, however, things quickly changed when Akagi injured his ankle, forcing Sakuragi to take over his spot as center.
King Kong, Younger Brother
Feb 4, 1995
Sakuragi did a pretty good job of filling in for Akagi, though it was Rukawa who pushed Shohoku into a fierce comeback against Kainan. He single handedly brought Shohoku back within five points.
The One that Dominates the Game
Feb 11, 1995
Rukawa's strong performance made it seem like Shohoku has a chance of winning, but what got everyone's attention was when Akagi came back from the locker room.
Ace Shepherd, Full Throttle
Feb 18, 1995
Akagi coming back in for Shohoku seemed like they would be in great position to win, but Maki displayed to everyone why he's the best player in the region, giving Jin a ton of open looks for three pointers.
Anzai, Bet on Victory!
Feb 25, 1995
Anzai formulated a plan to destroy Kainan's formidable backcourt combo of Jin and Maki by playing zone defense, and their offense started crumbling. Sakuragi, when shooting from the free throw line, decided to shoot it differently by throwing up a granny shot.
Stubborn Guys!
Mar 4, 1995
Shohoku and Kainan refuse to give up on each other with the match going back and forth like a see saw.
Last 10 Seconds! A Perfect Conclusion
Mar 11, 1995
The last ten seconds of the game are approaching, and Shohoku is only down by four. The one who'll decide this match will be Sakuragi.
To relieve guilt: Shave Head ?!
Mar 18, 1995
Sakuragi is in an emotional hangover after the events of the previous match, so in order to come to himself, he decides to change his appearance.
Baldy attacks back!
Mar 25, 1995
Sakuragi's new haircut was the news of the school the next day. During practice, he decided to work twice as hard in order to prevent another mistake like that happening again. When Mitsui was the one guarding Sakuragi, all of his weaknesses and shortcomings started showing.
Three-day super training
Apr 8, 1995
Akagi really wants Sakuragi to become part of their offense, so he trains him for three days straight on his shooting. To his surprise, Sakuragi was pretty enthusiastic about it.
Ryonan's genius plan
Apr 8, 1995
The anticipated match up between two of the best teams in the region commences. One of the biggest surprises was how Sendoh was handling point guard duties, and was doing an efficient job of it with Ryonan getting a head start against Kainan.
Kainan rebounds!
Apr 15, 1995
Sendoh is the entire pillar that's pushing his team forward right now, but the tables turn when Uozumo decides to argue a call from the referee.
The strongest rival
Apr 29, 1995
Due to Uozumi being fouled out, and Fukuda being a terrible defensive player, Sendoh was forced to carry Ryonan on his shoulders all by himself. Though for Shohoku, greater events have become more of a priority.
Sendoh's scheme
May 13, 1995
Shohoku's representatives rush to Anzai's aid, and are surprised at how efficiently Sakuragi acquired a doctor. Meanwhile, Kainan was too strong for Ryonan and Sendoh to handle. They'll have to do better now that they're up against Shohoku.
The final battle!
May 20, 1995
One of the more exciting matches in the tournament is about to start, as it's Ryonan vs. Shohoku. Though people have already been speculating Shohoku's chances of a victory, as their coach is absent, resting himself in the hospital.
Sakuragi Hanamichi comes to rescue!
May 27, 1995
Due to Fukuda's terrible defense and Sakuragi's equally atrocious offense, Taoka thought it'd be a harmless idea to match Fukuda up with him. However, it seems that the entire gym was in for a surprise as Sakuragi showed off his jumper.
Gorilla goes astray
Jun 3, 1995
Something appears to be wrong with Akagi; after getting knocked down by Uozumi, he started playing horribly. Kogure was forced to call a timeout in order to straighten things out.
King Kong number two!
Jun 10, 1995
In order to make Akagi come back to his senses, Sakuragi pulls off his cocky routine that more than motivates him back into playing normally.
Gorilla revives!
Jun 17, 1995
It seems that things are back to normal psychologically for Shohoku as Sakuragi wasn't as raged as expected by his friends, and Akagi finally solved some internal problems. The true match is about to start.
The greatest shame of one's life
Jul 1, 1995
Ryonan's offense was concentrated around Fukuda, who has been constantly defeating Sakuragi. He was forced to sit out, sulking to himself of being beaten fair and square. While Sakuragi was defeated, Shohoku wasn't, as Mitsui's three pointers pulled his team back within range of Ryonan.
Rukawa Kaede, gambling on the 2nd half
Jul 8, 1995
Everyone was confused on Rukawa's performance so far, scoring only two points. Though it became apparent in the second half; he saved up his energy for the second half in order to prevent what had happened to him during the final minutes against Kainan!
The most dangerous challenger!
Jul 15, 1995
With Rukawa and Sendoh at full strength against each other, they've both carried their teams, advancing point by point in hopes of defeating one another.
Peak performance
Jul 22, 1995
Sendoh and Rukawa continue to push against each other in the second half, but the highlight of it so far is Uozumi being forced to sit out with four fouls.
The feeling of victory
Aug 5, 1995
Uozumi gets a flashback of Coach Taoka's promise of bringing him to the national scene, but that promise is looking a little fuzzy with Shohoku dominating.
You guys are strong!
Aug 12, 1995
Uozumi has to sit out due to his fouls, which causes Akagi to dominate the paint and score easy baskets.
Uozumi Revives
Aug 19, 1995
Coach Taoka's patience ran dry as he subbed Uozumi back in to help shoulder some of Sendoh's responsibilities on the court.
Blue waves - Ryonan attacks back!
Aug 26, 1995
The shift of momentum started turning into Ryonan's favour as soon as Uozumi came back with four fouls, making defensive stops and scoring points.
Shohoku's problems
Sep 2, 1995
Coach Taoka exploited Shohoku's foul trouble problem, and made good use of it. Shohoku will continue to be in the hot seat if this continues.
Sendoh attacks! Shohoku loses
Sep 23, 1995
Sendoh's strong offensive play continues to push Ryonan closer to Shohoku, and their defensive stops aren't allowing Shohoku to score any points.
Amateur Sakuragi Hanamichi shows off!
Oct 21, 1995
Mitsui collapsed due to exhaustion, and while his lost presence was dire for Shohoku, they remained formidable behind Sakuragi's strong play.
Kogure's determination
Oct 28, 1995
Kogure spotted up for a 3 pointer. During the ball's journey there to the net, Kogure gets flashbackes of the basketball trials he faced to get to the position he's currently at.
Win or Lose
Nov 4, 1995
Kogure's 3 pointer put Shohoku up, but Sendoh wouldn't let his team get defeated so easily.
New Challenge: the national championship!
Nov 11, 1995
Expectedly, the Shohoku basketball team is all the talk at Shohoku school, and everyone won't leave them alone, especially the school's news reporter Mari.
Rukawa Kaede's Ambition
Nov 18, 1995
Hikiochi's sister desperately wants to interview Sendoh, but when doing so, eavesdropped on the announcement of Uozumi and Ikegami's retirement.
Japan's number basketball player
Nov 25, 1995
Sakuragi goes with Maki to scout out some teams who'll also be heading into the national tournament. One freshman center instantly caught their attention.
The basketball kingdom - United States of America
Dec 2, 1995
Rukawa pleads to Anzai about his decision to play in America, though he rejects the idea. Rukawa is told the emotional story of Yazawa, a person like him who flew over to America in order to face better competition.
Rukawa Kaede's spirit
Dec 9, 1995
Understanding Anzai's words, Rukawa immediately makes it his goal to become the best player in Japan, even taking it at a higher level during practice against his own teammates.
Shohoku's real ace
Dec 16, 1995
It's a battle between Mitsui and Rukawa to see who the real ace is for Shohoku.
The sudden barrier to the nationals
Dec 23, 1995
It seems that some of Shohoku's players have more things to worry about other than the fearful opponents at the nationals. Their marks have been poor, and if they don't pass their upcoming tests, they'll be forbidden to play! Akagi decides to take in his teammates and have a study camp at his house.
Guys - Sakuragi Gang
Jan 13, 1996
The Sakuragi gang look for jobs in order to collect money to afford train tickets to the national games.
Going toward 20000 shoots
Jan 20, 1996
Anzai decides to incorporate Sakuragi into the Shohoku offense, making him go through rigorous shooting training.
Shohoku vs. Jousei
Jan 27, 1996
Sakuragi continues his shooting practice while his team is off at Josei, battling equally with the former eight ranked team without Sakuragi's rebounding prowess.
The day when Sakuragi's fired up!
Feb 3, 1996
Haruka decides to reward Sakuragi for his hard practicing by taking him to the festival. Sakuragi sees this as an opportunity to try and get with her, but the process became harder then he had expected.
Basketball Shoes Part II
Feb 10, 1996
Sakuragi has been working hard for the past months to improve his basketball skills, but as a result, his shoes have torn. He visits none other than the man that gave him his first shoes.
Mixed Feelings, Uozumi returns
Feb 17, 1996
When a couple of Shoyo players decided to give their goodlucks to Shohoku, Sakuragi comes up with a suggestion; a game against Shoyo and Ryonan!
Shohoku vs. Shoyo/Ryonan
Feb 24, 1996
Rukawa garnered all the attention with his strong start to the game, but it was Sendoh who soon stole that spotlight when he entered the gym in his fishing clothes.
Facing the strongest team, Shohoku in danger!
Mar 2, 1996
The combination team has become even more formidable by adding Sendoh and Fukuda to their lineup, and while Sakuragi is still struggling, Shohoku retains the lead.
The one who brought forth a miracle - Sakuragi!
Mar 9, 1996
Fujima starts passing more and shooting less 3 pointers, giving hims teammates more open looks and easy opportunities to score. But is it enough to overcome Shohoku?
SLAM DUNK!
Mar 23, 1996
The battle between the combo team and Shohoku has reached its climax, and the one deciding its conclusion is Sakuragi with a Slam Dunk. Though Shohoku has more important things to look forward to, such as the Inter High Tournament.
