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Does Haikyuu have a deuteragonist? The answer is yes, and this article will discuss their role in the series and their relationship with the protagonist.
As one of the most beloved sports anime of all time, Haikyuu has won over an entire generation of fans while popularizing the sport of volleyball. Featuring a memorable cast, fluid animation and exhilarating matches, it has connected with several demographics.
While the series starts by focusing on the protagonist, Shoyo Hinata, it soon expands to include various characters. With each of them having distinctive motivations and roles in the series, fans may wonder whether Haikyuu has a deuteragonist.
Yes, Haikyuu does have a deuteragonist, and his name is Tobio Kageyama. He sticks out as a main character in his own right, having a lot of screen time with intricate development and exciting moments. Here is a closer look at him.
Why Is Kageyama Haikyuu’s Deuteragonist?
A deuteragonist is the second most important character after the protagonist, having a significant character arc of their own. While side characters often only act in supporting roles to the main character, a deuteragonist runs parallel to them.
These figures often serve as a rival, foil, or friend to the protagonist, showcasing a personality trait and development that hasn’t already been seen. They stand out on their own and are considered primary characters alongside the protagonist.
Tobio Kageyama perfectly fits this bill, holding an equal status to that of Shoyo Hinata. While Hinata is a likable, loud, and hard-working individual who defies the odds, Kageyama is a prodigy feared for his intimidating presence.
His challenges, growth, and dynamic with other characters are comparable to that of Hinata but are not necessarily dictated by the protagonist. His independent journey transcends the definition of a side character, making him the complex deuteragonist of Haikyuu.
Kageyama’s Role in Haikyuu
As we have seen, Kageyama is the deuteragonist of Haikyuu, who grows alongside Hinata. As Karasuno’s setter, he is initially an unapproachable boy who is known for his rude attitude. However, in truth, Kageyama is merely bad at expressing his emotions and leaves it all on the court.
He doesn’t hesitate in speaking his mind, particularly because other players cannot match up to his quality. However, when representing the Karasuno team, Kageyama learns the different elements that go into volleyball.
Playing together with Hinata, he learns how to set according to the expectations of others, elevating his overall game. He also begins working harder to not let his teammates down, ascending to his role as the team’s backbone.
Kageyama’s development from a cold individual to a person who learns to trust others and experience the value of friendship is heartwarming. He has grown to voice his thoughts properly, displaying respect and a positive form of passion.
Kageyama’s Relationship With Hinata
Kageyama may have plenty of spotlight on his own, but a key aspect of his character is his relationship with Hinata. As the protagonist and deuteragonist, the personalities of both of them couldn’t be more contrasting.
Hinata, who worked hard and enjoyed playing with his friends, and Kageyama, who was isolated by his entire team, demonstrated different approaches towards volleyball. However, when the two of them came together at Karasuno High, they became an unstoppable setter-spiker duo.
Despite their rivalry and banter, Kageyama and Hinata show great respect and trust towards each other. Hinata realizes Kageyama is a talented setter, learning several play styles from him. Kageyama, on the other hand, is inspired by Hinata and learns to accommodate his game for different players.
Their synergy, signature quick attack, and influence over each other make them an extremely iconic anime duo.
Is Kageyama the Best Setter in Haikyuu?
Over the course of Karasuno’s matches, we have been introduced to a variety of talented setters in Haikyuu. These range from the accurate Oikawa with his fearsome serves to the adaptable Atsumu who works in perfect tandem with his brother.
However, most of the fanbase agrees that Tobio Kageyama is the best setter in Haikyuu. Kageyama was always a prodigy, but his game was too stringent and inflexible. However, with Karasuno, he rapidly grew, learning how to make all his teammates shine.
He is a natural genius who works extremely hard and has very few flaws towards the latter half of the series. His combined attacks with Hinata, precise assists, quick thinking, and psychological games with the opponent make him nearly impossible to beat.
Conclusion
Tobio Kageyama’s role in Haikyuu goes beyond being just a supporting character — he is a co-lead who shares Hinata’s journey, challenges, and development. His complex character arc, role in Karasuno’s success, and rivalry with Hinata make him the clear-cut deuteragonist of the series.
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