Top 10 Best Haikyuu!! Characters

Haikyuu!! is packed with so many amazing characters, each bringing their own flair to the court. With personalities as diverse as their playstyles, these volleyball stars have earned a spot in the hearts of fans all over the world. Some are known for their incredible skill and intensity, while others are loved for their leadership, humor, or pure determination to grow.

This list is all about celebrating those characters that make Haikyuu!! such a standout series. Whether you're a fan of the relentless setters, the energetic liberos, or the captains who keep their teams grounded, there's no shortage of standout personalities.

Which players left you in awe or had you rooting for them from the start? Is it the ones who never give up, no matter how steep the challenge, or the strategic masterminds who see every move on the court before it happens?
The Top Ten
Tobio Kageyama

Geniuses are built differently. That's why Kageyama is so different from other players. Being an asocial person can be really hard. Haikyuu isn't just about volleyball. It shows what players go through and their everyday struggles to be better.

Despite being a genius in volleyball, he kind of lost the spotlight after the middle school incident, which hurt him deeply, though he never showed it. Luckily, Karasuno understood him, and his character development throughout the show is the best thing in the whole series. He might seem like a cold, indifferent, selfish type, but he actually means well. He just doesn't know how to express his thoughts properly, but he is working on it.

Not to mention, he is a volleyball monster and the best player in Haikyuu. The only thing he is lacking is communication, though I think he will eventually get better at that too. After being called "King of the Court" by his previous schoolmates and Oikawa, and "Goody Two Shoes" by Atsumu, he got really confused. But Hinata made him realize his true self. He was born to rule the court, and he can't play well if he hides his true personality. So, he has to find a middle ground where he can still be the king while pushing others to do better.

Honestly, Tobio is definitely the best boy.

Yuu Nishinoya

I really love Noya's character. The writers did an awesome job creating this amazing, quirky guy. He is depicted as someone who just goes with the flow and enjoys life the best he can. Moreover, the fact that he knows what he lacks and doesn't shy away from exposing it, and betters himself every opportunity he gets, is damn admirable.

Noya has also been the biggest emotional support to his team throughout the entire series and has been the biggest source of comedy for us viewers. However, what made his character so endearing for me was definitely the fact (warning: huge spoilers ahead) that by the end of the manga, he did not choose volleyball but stayed true to his biggest character trait, which is independence and its sheer joy. It might not have settled well with a few readers, but I must say that it was definitely a genius idea of the author.

He showed it clearly through this character that being confined to what you are good at and what is expected of you isn't necessary. If you are good at something yet don't want to take it further than a hobby, then that's fine. You can take whatever path you like because that is the true joy of being free.

Toru Oikawa

He is a hard worker who didn't have immense talent right from the get-go. He works harder than most people because he loves volleyball. He is very smart and observant, which helps his team when they are in a tight spot. He is able to draw out 100% from every player on his team, and he has had to play with some challenging characters like Mad Dog and Kunimi.

He seems like an immature jerk, but then we find out that he is hiding his fear of not being good enough. The trust he has in Iwaizumi really humanizes him because we see that even "the Great King" is capable of not thinking things through and going with his gut reaction. The scene where he was running for the ball and pointed at Iwaizumi from across the court, then set to him, was really touching because we got to see that they really do have a bond of unbreakable trust, despite what Iwaizumi says.

Kei Tsukishima

He's a unique and fascinating character that stands out from the rest. While the rest of the team is awesome and often very "LET'S GET ENERGIZED," showing excessive energy and optimism, it's really interesting to see a character with a more pessimistic viewpoint.

Despite his calm and pessimistic demeanor, he still contributes to the team. Although he might give up, something the rest of the team wouldn't do, he still puts in at least some effort. Overall, it's really cool to see the variation, and he's a very funny and cool guy.

Tadashi Yamaguchi

He worked so hard to get his jump float right. He is adorably timid but works very hard, even when he just sits on the sidelines. He also cares a lot about his best friend, Tsukishima Kei, and I couldn't stop smiling when I saw him score those five points with his jump floats. (Wow. I suddenly want to learn the jump float.)

His personality is very interesting. At first, he is pretty shy but becomes sociable once you get to know him. He was bullied and picked on when he was younger, which explains his nervousness and lack of self-esteem. (Yamaguchi Defense Squad! Join us, it's great.)

Koutarou Bokuto

His design looks weird and absolutely out of place at first, but he's actually a very funny character that fits right into the crowd. He looks like he doesn't take things seriously, which makes people underestimate him, but he's actually a really good player.

Bokuto is my favorite character. He is awesome because he is very encouraging to other teams. It's very easy for him to make friends. Plus, Bokuto's sad face is awesome because his hair goes down as well. He is a calmer version of Hinata, Noya, and Tanaka. Bokuto is my favorite captain and third year ever.

Satori Tendou

He's a complete dork, a monster on the court, and the only person I've seen who seems to be on a friend level with Ushijima. The little bit of backstory we got really added to his character, and his overall attitude is like, you're not on my level. Get out of my face, which really seems to work with him without making him seem like a douche.

His blocking skills are on point, and he is the human embodiment of expect the unexpected. Plus, the little dance he does to his mocking song is adorable. Case closed.

Tendou's personality is just perfect, and the fact that he was able to befriend Ushijima is also amazing. I truly love Tendou, his energy on and off the court, and how kind he actually is, though it may not seem like it during their match against Karasuno.

I think his backstory also adds to his character, really giving him more depth than the others. Not to mention, he is really cute and has a unique character design.

Kenma Kozume

Kenma is honestly an amazing character. A lot of people think he's really dependent on Kuroo, but in reality, he is his own person. Even though he can be distant at times, you know that he genuinely cares about the team and the others.

He is one of the best setters and is very analytical rather than just setting the ball to whoever. He really thinks about his decisions.

Beautiful cat. He is our blonde. Kenma is our very chill character in this who likes to play video games. We can tell he doesn't have very many friends. Besides all that, he is a very good setter and knows his opponents really well.

Koushi Sugawara

He is such an angel.

First of all, he treats all the first years as if he's their mom, and he's always so caring. Second, even though he is in his third year and it's going to be his last year in Karasuno, he immediately gives up his position to Kageyama so that the team can benefit. He is one of the most selfless people I can think of in this anime.

Third, he's there for people when they need him, but he also knows when to be strict with his teammates. Conclusion: Suga is awesome.

Suga? Definitely the mom friend of the team. He never gives up but gets down sometimes. He is very sweet and a really good setter. People depend on him, and you feel like he is someone you can talk to about your problems.

Suga is a very sweet person. He is also a really good server.

Shouyou Hinata

Yo, people, he's the main character for a reason. Listen up, especially girls. I don't get what you see in Kageyama. He has such a terrible personality. Have you seen his smile? Straight-out creepy! Unlike Hinata, who has a better personality and can actually smile. He's the star of the show.

I honestly think he deserves at least second place. Also, girls, don't even think you belong with Kageyama. He's an anime character. He's not real (even if I wished characters were!). I'm not insulting people who, for some reason, like Kageyama, but seriously, stop focusing on how good-looking the person is, and go for their personality. Because there's nothing good in a *dramatic pause* "mysterious personality," and it doesn't make them look "hot" either. It's just straight-out annoying.

The Newcomers

? Osamu Miya

Hot just like his twin, although I really like his calmer personality. Also, he loves food just like me. If he were real, I'd have a hard time not drooling over him.

The better twin. Boyfriend material. Sweet home Alabama.

His voice is so deep and soothing, and I really like his looks, honestly.

? Atsumu Miya

He's just so adorable! I know he gives off the vibe that he's a playboy (and he probably is), but I just love his goofy personality, especially when he argues with Osamu! Plus, he's so dedicated to volleyball, which I really admire.

He is honest and one of the best setters. He has two serves and is crazy talented and hardworking. He has amazing hair.

He is loyal to Hinata later in the manga and is a fortune teller.

The Contenders
Tetsurou Kuroo

The fandom of Haikyuu may represent Kuroo as a literal sex god, but in reality, this Nekoma captain is an absolute dork.

He's also very determined and a great captain, and it is obvious how much he cares for Kenma. He can be serious when he needs to be, and I love the friendship between him and Bokuto.

Overall, he's my favorite! His design is unique as well, and I love how his hair looks like he just rolled out of bed, most likely because he sleeps with two pillows over his head. The captain of Nekoma cannot be beaten!

Ryuunosuke Tanaka

He is the mental MVP. His mental and physical strength are admirable, playing a vital role in the team's morale. Even when other teams try to silence him, he manages to come out on top. His friendship with Tanaka is both hilarious and enjoyable. He is honest, kind, and his energy consistently puts a smile on our faces.

He is mature enough to admit his mistakes and apologize. When we found out that he is married to Kiyoko in the future and works as a personal trainer, we couldn't have asked for a more perfect path for him! I just love him, aghhh.

Daichi Sawamura

Also, one of the most underrated characters in the series. He rounds everyone up and gets the monkey circle in order when needed. He and Suga are the glue of the team, and he is a great strategist and is experienced in many fields. He makes up for the team's flaws in spots that they struggle in and helps them keep a healthy mindset, encouraging them like Suga.

I like his simple backstory too. He's strict, but fair and human. Good character.

My favorite scary captain. He's nice in general, but when any of his teammates get annoying or act up, he really starts yelling and looks ready to pull that belt off. He really would have if Ukai wasn't there. For real though, he is a good captain.

Keiji Akaashi

He is a very professional setter who uses perfect logic. He uses very respectful words toward people who are higher in grades than him. Considered one of the youngest on the team, he is the main player and can uplift Bokuto when he is in a bad mood, and even the entire team.

Literally, this boy is beautiful.

Besides, I admire him a lot for being able to put up with Bokuto and his emotional waves. To add to that, he's pretty smart and humble. He just needs love.

This beautiful owl prince needs more love. He's calm, humble, and cares a lot about Bokuto. I just really like him.

Asahi Azumane

Asahi is a relatable and adorable character. Despite his appearance, he has a timid and delicate personality, often feeling a strong sense of responsibility. This is evident when he temporarily stops attending the volleyball club after his attacks were blocked by the "Iron Wall" of Datekou.

I understand how he must have felt when he lost the match, all his efforts failing to yield good results. He blamed himself and quit the club for a while but later returned, becoming even stronger and fulfilling his role as Karasuno's ace.

Hajime Iwaizumi

Iwa-chan seriously doesn't get enough love. He's such a good best friend to Oikawa and looks out for him so much, not to mention his version of tough love when Oikawa overworks himself again.

And let's not even talk about that scene when Seijou *spoiler* lost in the final battle against Karasuno in the second season and Iwaizumi says, What kind of ace am I? because that hurts me so much even now. It baffles me that he's only in 14th place!

Someone has to keep Oikawa in check, and I'm glad it's him. Enough about him since this is supposed to be about Iwa. He literally doesn't know how to show affection, so he would literally give you a concussion before he would give you a hug. He's low-key like me, so that's a plus, but he really is a great character.

Kiyoko Shimizu

I love Kiyoko so much. She is a character who is very likable for me personally. I mean, this girl had so many cute guys crushing on her, but she brushed them off like it was nothing.

She has to deal with simps, like best girl award.

Kentaro Kyotani (Mad Dog)

He kind of reminds me of Blueberry Head and gives off that kind of vibe, but the only difference is he warmed up to his acquaintances within one game.

Okay, at first I didn't really care for him, but he made his way into my top ten characters. He's too crazy, and I really like how different his personality is from the rest.

Wakatoshi Ushijima

He doesn't look like a team player, but he actually encourages his teammates and tries to keep them as upbeat as possible. He's a really great player and a rare lefty-spiker, which is really interesting to see in this series, as there aren't that many lefties.

Don't let his bulky body and serious face fool you! He is also a honey-bean! I love how he's scared of sea cucumbers, which is relatable. He is such an outstanding player, as one of the few left-handed spikers.

My quiet king! This man has the best vocabulary on the show, even though he spoke only 10 words the whole show. He is so cool. I don't know how anyone could dislike him. Anyways, Oikawa should've gone to Shiratorizawa.

Takanobu Aone
Lev Haiba

This guy has got a fine character, kind of a lot like mine.

Morisuke Yaku

He is probably one of my favorite characters because the moms of the teams are always one of the best.

He's so cute and adorable. I felt bad for him when he hurt his ankle in Riku vs. Kuu.

Keishin Ukai

I loved Keishin when I looked at his fan art and when I first heard of him. I laughed at the episode when he was being spied on by Takeda. It was the funniest thing I ever saw.

Keishin has the most fascinating eyes that I have ever seen.

I love Keishin. He looks too young to be a coach for Karasuno, but he looks so hot when he shows up. I mean, look at him. His fan art is amazing.

Just genuinely a hilarious character that also has many sides.

Hitoka Yachi

One of the most underrated characters of the show. To be honest, I judged her at first, but she's one of the most relatable characters on the show.

The fact that she had this anxiety thing around people (mainly boys) made me like her even more. She was degraded by her mom, which made her feel negative about everything. I really like her.

Kiyoomi Sakusa

I love his personality! I also love how no matter what, he'll get something done. He's just so cool and low-key cute.

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