Kyle Martin Verano

A slow burn. Kitamura Kou's journey was filled with a quiet determination unlike any story I've encountered so far. His character was filled with flaws, yet it was also flawless. The distinction that this story showed me is how much a person could love and how much a person could despair, endure, struggle, and eventually stand back up. Honestly, there were many things I would have liked to turn out differently, but at the same time, I would also not change a single thing since this was the reality of this story and it was necessary in order for things to have gone the way they did. I binged this entire series in two days and I could firmly say that I was awestruck with the development of the story. There were a lot of subtle moments that hinted of each character's inner thoughts and I applaud it. They were done so well that I would not have noticed if I did not pay enough attention properly. It was a very emotionally driven story and it delivered its message powerfully. Though, I may have seen my fair share of sports animes and mangas, this was a unique series that I wouldn't possibly forget even in the distant future. To those new to this series, give this a go... you are in for a ride.