Akira Sendu

Akira Sendoh is Ryonan High's ace, a lean, easygoing forward whose talent looks almost lazy until the ball is in his hands. He plays with a grin, treats opponents kindly, and scouts rivals with real curiosity rather than menace — a gifted player who genuinely loves the game and wants worthy competition, not just wins.

He's the rare rival who isn't a wall to be overcome but a mirror — his warmth toward Sakuragi and quiet respect for Rukawa give the story someone who enjoys basketball purely for its own sake. Ōtsuka's easy, unhurried voice makes his confidence feel like generosity rather than arrogance.