Slam Dunk Vol. 19 — Manga Raw / Buy Official

In their opening Nationals game against Toyotama's ultra-offensive style, Shohoku makes the almost reckless choice of trading blows head-on in the second half, on their opponent's own terms. Coach Anzai's intent and the players' pride align, and the first-year duo of Rukawa and Sakuragi lights a fire under the team. Rukawa burns with fighting spirit despite his injured eye while Sakuragi dominates the paint with sheer grit—their growth lifts Shohoku. Takehiko Inoue drives this volume straight toward the early Nationals climax.