Basketball is a Battlefield!

And these kids are settin’ the court on fire!

The first half of Shohoku’s game against Sannoh—last year’s national champions as well as the fan favorite—continues as both teams try to outgun each other by unleashing player upon player. 

In the first half, Mitsui finds himself hounded both on and off the court: he's plagued by his own personal demons as well as by the relentless Satoshi. At first, all seems lost. But with the help of Coach Anzai's encouragement, as well as his own growing self-confidence, he's able to turn the tide of the game and strike Sannoh with an obstacle they never thought they’d have to overcome—Mitsui’s unstoppable three-pointers!

Soon, Shohoku gains a small lead over Sannoh, giving the team a much needed morale boost. Sannoh quickly begins to realize that they may need to take these determined underdogs seriously, especially once Rukawa is set loose! Rukawa’s desire to be the best only becomes stronger as he meets his perfect match on the basketball court—Sawakita.

Sakuragi also faces a rival he must overcome: the bulky Mikio, affectionately dubbed “Chunky” by Sakuragi. Mikio just might be more than even the great Sakuragi can handle! Sakuragi’s training is put to the test as he tries to overcome Mikio’s sheer mass with more than just physical might.

As these two raw, powerful players fight it out under the net, will Coach Anzai and Akagi's tough love get through to Sakuragi? Has Sakuragi learned enough from his teammates to come out on top, or will the weight of the pressure crush him?

Read about the heart-pounding face-off in Slam Dunk Volume 26!

by Cat Rechsteiner