There's a special brand of charm that comes with sports anime, and the appeal doesn't just stem from the high-octane, heart-pumping action.

While it's always a joy to witness the last-minute thrills, hard-fought victories, and sensational plays unfolding in the arena, the heart of the genre lies much in the journey, where characters struggle, fall, and grow into their full potential while also building a sense of camaraderie with others.