Series & First Appearance
Kenma Kozume is a character from the popular volleyball-themed anime and manga series Haikyuu!!, created by Haruichi Furudate. He first appears in Chapter 39 of the manga and makes his anime debut in Episode 10 during the first season.
Profile at a Glance
Kenma is a 16-year-old student and a pivotal member of the Nekoma High School volleyball team, wearing the number 5. He plays the role of a setter, recognized for his exceptional game sense and technical skills. While he may lack in physical power and stamina, Kenma compensates with his intellect and technique, making him a strategic powerhouse on the court.
Personality & Motivations
Kenma embodies a laid-back and reserved demeanor, often appearing indifferent or unmotivated, which is amplified by his love for video games. He is not quick to express his opinions due to a fear of judgment, resulting in a quieter presence on the team. Despite his introversion, Kenma’s true passion for volleyball emerges when he is alongside his friends, particularly Tetsurou Kuroo and the energetic Shoyo Hinata. His primary concerns are usually trivial but reflect his general discontent with the extremes of weather, stating, "Summer is hot and winter is cold." Kenma’s growth throughout the series shows a gradual shift from a passive teammate to a more engaged and assertive player.
Abilities / Powers
Kenma’s skill set is distinctive:
- Game Sense: He possesses an extraordinary ability to read the game and anticipate moves, making him highly effective as a setter.
- Technique: Kenma has a remarkable grasp of technique, reflected in his ability to deliver precise sets that adapt to each player’s strengths.
- Intellect: Rated a 5 in intellect, he conceptualizes plays and strategies far beyond most players.
Despite his technical prowess, Kenma has limitations:
- Power: Rated a 1, his physical strength is not formidable.
- Speed and Stamina: Both rated at 2, indicating his struggle with prolonged exertion and quick movement.
As the series progresses, Kenma pushes himself to overcome his physical limitations, evolving from solely relying on his intelligence to developing a more rounded approach to his game.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Key moments in Kenma’s narrative arc involve his increasing participation in matches and growing confidence:
- Nekoma vs. Fukurodani: This match highlights Kenma’s strategic play and ability to coordinate with his teammates, especially as they face off against fellow setters.
- Training Camp Arc: The training camp serves as a critical growth point where Kenma confronts his fears and emerges as a more engaged player, developing deeper camaraderie with teammates.
- Inter-High: The climax of the series so far, where Kenma, alongside his team, faces higher stakes and tougher opponents, leading to significant character development.
Through these experiences, Kenma evolves from a hesitant player into someone who embraces challenges and grows to appreciate teamwork.
Notable Relationships
- Tetsurou Kuroo: Kenma’s childhood friend and captain of Nekoma. Their relationship features a blend of mutual respect and playful banter, helping Kenma come out of his shell.
- Shoyo Hinata: Initially a rival, Hinata’s energy and determination inspire Kenma to engage more actively with both the game and his teammates.
- Other teammates such as Yamamoto and Kageyama also influence Kenma’s development, showcasing the importance of solidarity and friendship in sports.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
- "I’m not into volleyball." (Episode 1)- This line introduces Kenma’s nonchalant attitude and hints at his complex relationship with the sport.
- "It’s just a game." – A recurring sentiment that signifies his struggle with emotional investment in volleyball. However, as the series progresses, he learns to balance his love for gaming and sports.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Kenma is one of the most beloved characters in Haikyuu!!, amassing a member favorite count of 11,069, showcasing his popularity.
- His voice is provided by Kaito Ishikawa in the Japanese version and Kyle McCarley in the English dub.
- Kenma’s design reflects his character: casual attire, often seen with gaming gear or phone, showcasing a modern, relatable teenager.
- He participates actively in fan polls and is frequently noted as a fan-favorite due to his relatable struggles and endearing personality traits.
Kenma Kozume’s journey captures the essence of personal growth, friendship, and the value of teamwork in sports, making him an integral part of the Haikyuu!! narrative.
