Who Is Hisashi Mitsui?

Hisashi Mitsui (三井 寿, Mitsui Hisashi) is one of the most beloved characters in Slam Dunk (スラムダンク), the legendary basketball manga and anime by Takehiko Inoue. He is the shooting guard of Shohoku High School's basketball team, wearing jersey #14.

Mitsui is famous for having one of the most emotionally powerful character arcs in all of sports anime — a former MVP who lost his way, only to return to the court in one of manga's most iconic scenes.

Mitsui's Japanese Name

His full name in Japanese is 三井 寿 (Mitsui Hisashi):

  • 三井 (Mitsui) — "three wells," a common Japanese surname also shared with the famous Mitsui zaibatsu (business conglomerate)
  • 寿 (Hisashi/Kotobuki) — "longevity" or "congratulations," an auspicious kanji often used in celebrations

"I Want to Play Basketball" — The Iconic Scene

The phrase "先生…バスケがしたいです" ("Sensei... basuke ga shitai desu") — "Coach... I want to play basketball" — is one of the most famous lines in manga history.

This scene occurs when Mitsui, after two years of delinquency and self-destruction, breaks down in tears before Coach Anzai and begs to be allowed back on the Shohoku basketball team. The moment encapsulates themes of redemption, wasted talent, and the courage to start over that make Slam Dunk resonate with readers decades after its publication.

The scene has become a cultural touchstone in Japan and across Asia. "Mitsui I want to play basketball" is referenced in countless memes, parodies, and emotional discussions about second chances in sports and life.

Mitsui's Role at Shohoku

Before his departure from basketball, Mitsui was the MVP of the Kanagawa Prefecture Junior High Tournament. His skills include:

  • Three-point shooting — Mitsui is Shohoku's best long-range shooter, capable of hitting clutch three-pointers under extreme pressure
  • Stamina weakness — His two-year absence left him with poor endurance, making late-game fatigue his biggest vulnerability
  • Clutch performance — Despite his stamina issues, Mitsui consistently delivers in crucial moments, especially in the Shohoku vs. Sannoh match

Slam Dunk Real Locations in Kamakura

Kamakurakoko-mae Station Crossing (鎌倉高校前駅)

The railroad crossing from the Slam Dunk opening theme is Japan's most famous anime pilgrimage spot. The Enoden train passes in front of a sparkling ocean view — the exact scene that millions of fans know by heart.

How to get there: Take the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden) from Kamakura Station towards Fujisawa. Kamakurakoko-mae is 6 stops (about 17 minutes, ¥260).

Tips: Visit early morning (before 9am) or on weekdays for fewer crowds. Stay on the sidewalk — cars pass through constantly. Morning light gives the best ocean backdrop for photos.

Shichirigahama Beach (七里ヶ浜)

The long stretch of beach visible from the famous crossing. Training montage scenes show characters jogging along this coast. One stop from Kamakurakoko-mae on the Enoden, or a pleasant 15-minute coastal walk.

Enoden Railway

The Enoshima Electric Railway itself is a character in Slam Dunk. The vintage green trains running along the coast between Kamakura and Fujisawa appear throughout the series. A one-day pass (Nori-Ori-Kun, ¥800) lets you hop on and off to visit all the Slam Dunk spots.

Visiting Tips for Slam Dunk Fans

  • Best time: Early morning on weekdays. The crossing is now so famous that crowd control measures are in place on weekends.
  • Day trip from Tokyo: Take JR Yokosuka Line from Tokyo Station to Kamakura (about 55 minutes), then transfer to Enoden.
  • Combine with: Enoshima Island, Kamakura Great Buddha, and Hase Temple for a full day.
  • Enoden Pass: The Nori-Ori-Kun one-day pass (¥800) is essential for visiting multiple Slam Dunk spots along the coast.