Series & First Appearance
Shintarou Midorima is a character from the anime and manga series Kuroko no Basuke (Kuroko’s Basketball), created by Tadatoshi Fujimaki. He first appears in Chapter 3 of the manga and Episode 2 of the anime. The series is produced by Production I.G.
Profile at a Glance
Midorima is 16 years old, stands at an impressive 195 cm (6’4"), and weighs 79 kg (174 lbs). He plays the role of a shooting guard for Shuutoku High School after previously being a member of the Generation of Miracles at Teiko Middle School. Midorima is known for his special ability as a far-distance shooter, possessing remarkable accuracy that allows him to score from virtually anywhere on the court.
Personality & Motivations
Midorima is characterized by his reserved demeanor and brusque behavior, often coming across as arrogant. While he initially appears unkind or serious, his friend and teammate Takao refers to him as a "tsundere," suggesting a softer side that struggles to express warmth. He has a strict belief in horoscopes and always carries a lucky item with him, reflecting his superstitious nature. Additionally, he is rather meticulous about his hand’s condition, which he believes is crucial for his shooting performance.
Abilities / Powers
Midorima’s standout skills include his unparalleled shooting accuracy and ability to make baskets from extreme distances. His shooting ability is complemented by his defensive skills, making him an excellent all-around player. This natural talent is further enhanced by his left-handed shooting style, which he augments with special care: he always bandages his dominant hand and shapes his nails to optimize his shooting form. However, his reliance on his lucky items can be viewed as a limitation, as it restricts him to a psychological dependence.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout Kuroko no Basuke, Midorima experiences significant character development. Initially portrayed as cold and competitive, his rivalry with other members of the Generation of Miracles, particularly with Kuroko and Kagami, serves as a catalyst for self-reflection. His encounters during the Winter Cup arc challenge his understanding of teamwork, culminating in pivotal games that help him grow personally and as a player. During the series, he comes to recognize the importance of collaboration over individual prowess, particularly in high-stakes matches.
Notable Relationships
Midorima’s key relationship is with his teammate Takao, who serves both as his confidant and foil. Takao’s extroverted personality contrasts sharply with Midorima’s introversion, often leading to humorous situations. His past as part of the Generation of Miracles keeps him tied to characters like Akashi (his vice-captain in Teiko) and other teammates, creating both friendships and rivalry. His relationships evolve as he respects Kuroko’s unique approach to basketball, ultimately leading to mutual growth.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Midorima’s most memorable moments occurs during a match against Seirin, where his incredible long-range shot leaves a lasting impact on the audience, showcasing his abilities and enhancing his competitive nature (Season 1, Episode 9). A notable quote that reflects his self-awareness and dedication is: “You can’t stop me with your eyes. You can only try and guard my shooting.” This line underscores his confidence and determination that resonates well with fans.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Midorima ranks highly on popularity polls, often appearing as a fan favorite due to his complex persona and basketball prowess. Voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya in Japanese and Matt Mercer in the English dub, he has garnered significant admiration among audiences for his representation of an isolated genius. His birthday, July 7, aligns with the Tanabata festival in Japan, a detail that reflects his cultural significance. Additionally, his affinity for red bean soup is an authentic Japanese touch that adds depth to his character.
In terms of artistic design, Midorima is often seen sporting glasses, a characteristic that emphasizes his intellectual persona and distinguishes him within the ensemble cast of Kuroko no Basuke. His iconic green hair and color themes further set him apart as part of the series’ vibrant character dynamics.
Overall, Shintarou Midorima serves as a fascinating character within Kuroko no Basuke, marrying talent with a uniquely nuanced personality that evolves throughout the series, offering fans multiple aspects to appreciate and explore.
