Volleyball Couple Reaction to Haikyu!! OVA 3: "Land vs Air"

[@alteronin]

They were actually calling Lev's sister bijin, literal translation is beautiful, so its not that weird Lev agrees haha

[@SarahPavanVolleyball]

Fine.... I guess 😂

[@wasabichips933]

Yeah I mean people talk about their beautiful daughters and handsome sons all the time and it's not weird at all. But if they started talking about their smoke show of a daughter or hunk of a son, that would be a different story lol.

[@Lonewolf-pn6yg]

honestly I think Lev has the same feeling as ryutaro in demon slayer, agreeing to his sister beauty but more in a sense of proudness instead of being attracted by them. (Sorry for my English)

[@Oatomeal]

Obligatory “Roll Tide”

[@h.h1623]

animes are weird, don't always blame translations hahahh​@@SarahPavanVolleyball

[@Eclipse40]

Yaku is certifiably insane. Imagine being easily far and away the best defensive player on the team KNOWN for their defense. Where every player is good defensively, but you're still a step above. Even Noya from what little he saw in season 1 talked about how Yaku is really good already.

[@Vesimias]

Completely agree, Yaku is definitely the best libero in the show, even with how insane Noya is himself!

[@chrisbreezy-ryanbarbosa4320]

So true, I think the It******ma guy is the best libero, followed by Yaku, then Noya. However Noya should surpass Yaku in his third year, just an opinion

[@Ben-v6z3s]

@@VesimiasI would argue that they are equal but you do you

[@Intersectingstuff]

​@@Ben-v6z3s i think they are equal in the manga but i feel like the anime cut off lots of noya scenes

[@HinatasBank]

In manga, they cut it in anime, Noya even said that Yaku is a combination of him and daichi. I think in pure receiving techniques and stuff Yaku is better but noya has better reflexes so for me Yaku is better than noya.

[@arandeepgala9927]

I just think one of the factors why people love Bokuto so much is the inspiration he had on key members of the Karasuno team, His inspirational speech to Tsukki and him motivating Hinata to get to nationals. His mentorship and big brother like relationship is crucial.

[@JeanLoupGarou]

A great man once said : "Yaku Morisuke is a man who can kill a spiker without touching the ball"

[@tesshh1]

still mad they cut that

[@maribee3314]

I break into frustrated tears when I think all the missed/skipped scenes from that match kara/neko match😢

[@melvinmacaulay711]

Akashi never gets enough credit for how good of a team leader he is and how great he is as a player managing setter he is he is basically a lesser offensive juggernaut oikawa fr!!!

[@Vnemes1sV]

Akaashi*

[@OsSas3]

I can't blame you for being too hard on Bokuto or underrate Fukorodani, the anime didn't focus as much as the manga in them. Fukorodani is a top school in Tokio, being present at almost every National. The team also has many reliable players, I think mainly Akaashi, Washio (middle blocker)and Konoha (opposite) but every member is a solid player. Bokuto was able to rank into the Top 5 spikers nation wide, which means even with his weak mental state, he's pretty strong (imagine how good he'll be if he surpass that). I think it's fair to compare him to Asahi being not strong willed (and he's not even into the Top players).

[@idiosyncrasy7703]

It's also a shame the anime did not and will not adapt their match vs Kiryu. That match really solidifies how much Bokuto has grown throughout the series.

[@Eihei]

​@@idiosyncrasy7703Don't even remind me about that, i'm still mega salty how much they are skipping. I don't understand that considering enormous popularity of Haikyuu.

[@saps5831]

We can always cope and hope for a season to be made with the movies and extra content added like how Demon Slayer did it with the train arc.

[@Vnemes1sV]

Tokyo*

[@lucasmelee]

the anime doesnt highlight this as much, but Akaashi has a few panels where his decisions are literally made in less than a second, his micromanagement between bokuto and the rest of the team is truly elite also, this was pointed out by ukai back in the training arc, Fukurodani isnt a average team with a top 5 ace they're an elite team that happens to also count with a top 5 ace, sadly the ova shortened these matches a bit, but even during bokuto's slumps, they still kept up with nekoma. sure he is the closer but they're no slouches. also just to remember, 3 out of the 4 semifinalists will go to nationals, due to being the larger region, tokyo always has 2 slots: the finals are to see who's the #1 seed, the third spot is a special occasion because tokyo is the host for the tournament so they gain an extra slot. another interpretstion to land vs air is the fact that nekoma are cats and fukurodani's animal motif are owls

[@HCXWinchester]

Very nice explanation!

[@joeljude9180]

I think you deleted part of your comment

[@Kim-ng4ti]

I LOVED what Kuroo said to Lev. Lev really looks up to Kuroo too, like his admiration is almost like a little brother thinking that his big brother is this larger than life, can do no wrong, amazing person (You can see how Lev gets frustrated every single time Kuroo seems less than "perfect"). Kuroo being calm, open minded and wise is a good feat to have as a captain in general. But he really demonstrates it in this scene. He acknowledged Lev's feelings, validated the difficulty he's facing right now, assured him that there isn't neccessarily anything wrong with him being a little different but also gave him something to think about and to look forward to, when he told him that teamwork coming together will probably feel a lot better than he thinks. That's a straight up 10/10 response.

[@maepledonuts6777]

I love Bokuto so much but seeing Sarah annoyed is so funny 😂

[@karabomasibi2331]

Bokuto and Oikawa bring the best out of Sarah hahahaha

[@jamesnightblade3770]

i think nekomata’s coaching was teaching his players to think for themselves and his advice in time outs is usually very short insightful things to get the conversation started.

[@brunobotr2020]

It's a bit like Seijoh's coaches. They'll provide advice occasionally, but the players run the timeouts for the most part.

[@manueldelgado5336]

I agree that the mental part is hard, but I think Bokuto actually has an amazing mental fortitude. He does not get frustrated by the other team, he does only by himself failing. And whats more, he hits rock bottom easily, but he gets back to the top in the same set, or even match, which is more than some other top players when they are "not in the zone".

[@t3cchan]

Another dimension to the "Land vs. Air" title is that, as you know, each school name incorporates an animal. Fukuroudani is written as "Owl Valley High School"

[@SarahPavanVolleyball]

That probably makes way more sense 🤣

[@rexevan6714]

@@SarahPavanVolleyball and Karasuno is "Karasu" which means "Crow". but Aoba Johsai a.k.a Seijou is not named after an animal

[@brunobotr2020]

And Nohebi Gakuen (戸美学園) doesn't have the actual Japanese character for snake (hebi, 蛇) in their name, but they'll display some snake-like qualities in their game against Nekoma.

[@apoorvjoshi2383]

​@@rexevan6714 yea, i am pretty sure a lot of them have been either named(idk if the names translate as it is) or been represented by different things I don't remember if there was any such thing for Seijou and Date tech was probably just Iron wall. But Sarukawa are Monkeys(i think Saru is monkey) Nekoma are cats(Neko means cat) Fukurodani are owls(Fukuro means owl) Nohebi were the snakes(Hebi is snake) Karasuno are crows(Karasu is crow) Shiratorizawa should be swan(I think shiratori is swan) BUT i think since ushijima was so dominant and the coach's name is Washijo they are more like Eagles(Washi is eagle) Inarizak are Foxes(Inari is the name of a fox god i believe..) but they are never shown as such i guess. Itachiyama are weasles(Itachi) Kamomedai are seagulls(Kamome)

[@animeamm]

@@apoorvjoshi2383 Aoba Johsai get represented as plants because the kanji used for "Aoba" can also be translated as 'green leaf'.

[@TrianaNero]

Some of your comments and expressions these episodes were so priceless I choked on my snacks :"D I'm so glad we have this reaction series

[@SarahPavanVolleyball]

Don't choke on the snacks!!!! I'm glad to hear we were funny though!!

[@bhavyashah9008]

The way of the ace 1. Your back should be an inspiration to your teammates 2. Smash every wall in your way 3. Every ball shall be spiked Bokuto is one of the best characters in the series without a doubt

[@wildpokemon2]

These two OVAs are the best! Unlike the other OVAs these are based on the manga-set immediately after Karasuno wins against Shiratorizawa-so it all flows together nicely to continue the plot! They unfortunately did have to cut a fair amount of that manga content to make these OVAs into only two episodes, so some of the details of the matches are lost, but like Sarah said, still really nice to get to see the Tokyo teams in a real tournament setting nonetheless.

[@meychamochi]

24:12 Sarah and Adam's synchronized disappointed head shake at Lev gets me LOL

[@Lydia.Galleta]

I think most people like Bokuto not because they think he's a great player, but bercause he is relatable as a character. We've seen so many characters in Haikyuu who are held back by ther phisical ability (mainly Hinata with his height) and Bokuto is the one that could be great: he has the talent, the athletic ability, the physical strength, the height, the motivation... But it is his emotional disregulation what's holding him back. I find him extremelly relatable as someone who strugles with mental health and also has ADHD (I headcanon Bokuto as ADHD too), as I experience very high highs in motivation when I hiperfixate in something but as soon as that hiperfixation wears off or I run into a problem I go the oposit direction crashing down into the lowest low feeling like I will never be able to achive anything. I think that's one of the reasons why so many people love Bokuto: he's just a teen who hasnt learnt jet how to cope with his own emotions and how to regulate himself and I think his arc is about learning to do that and to become trully reliable for his team.

[@selensewar]

Exactly that. He's as flawed as everyone other major party here, just in another way from them.

[@Raymund662]

Same here as an AuDHDer (Autistic + ADHDer) and really competitive as well. There's a bunch of neurodiverse peeps in Haikyuu!!, especially Autistic (Kageyama, Ushijima, Tendo, Kenma, Akaashi?, Kunimi?) and ADHDer (Hinata and Bokuto), actually...

[@doubleasworkshop1692]

I bet Adam is gonna absolutely adore the ball boy arc

[@TheXCU]

i love how much Adam loves the characters now. He seems like he's having so much fun

[@adamschulz9475]

I very much look forward to to watching Haikyu every week. It reminds me of coaching my old 17u boys team. Very invested at this point.

[@sidharthnair7599]

They aren't ready for the Bokuto redemption arc, the growth is remarkable. The only problem is they might just axe the whole thing altogether seeing as sooo much is left to be animated and we probably only have one more movie left. Hopefully they show that arc.

[@jacobwynter7226]

I really don't want th film to include the arc. They are already gonna cut too much important content

[@sidharthnair7599]

@jacobwynter7226 To each their own, but I feel that is very important content too.

[@maryt2786]

Sarah’s look at 3:02 😂 The panic. Yes, basically Nohebi and Nekoma are rivals and play each other often. Another fun fact, Kuroo and Nohebi’s captain are actually friends and meet outside of matches too. That’s why Kuroo knew about his girlfriend dumping him 😂 I’m missing some facts here, if there is someone who knows more, please let me know!

[@iamai_iggs]

Kuroo and the Nohebi's captain are legit good friends who like to dunk on each other. but I think the most hilarious thing about their relationship is the fact that Mika, the girlfriend, is constantly questioning herself if she's actually in some weird love triangle or she's the third wheel because of how close her boyfriend and Kuroo are :))

[@maryt2786]

@ I didn’t know that! That’s so funny

[@TyrantOfNerds]

FINALLY I HAVE CAUGHT UP WITH THE ADAM'S REACTIONS!!! I'm stoked for him to watch season 4

[@anony_mous8681]

We're exactly the same XD

[@kizukimitana]

I've been waiting for this for so long. I'm glad Yaku is finally getting the recognition he deserves🥹 That receive at the end was so cool, it lives rent free in my mind fr😩

[@Xyo_]

15:15 LMAO Lydia with the edits killing me 🤣

[@ehbprd8783]

Lev and his sister look somewhat alike, so them complimenting his sister would also kind of be a compliment to him aswell, which ofc is also great for Lev's ego

[@TheSteelKeeper]

I LOVE Bokuto as a character, he's fun he's positive and he helps everyone. He's a good dude, but I would absolutely HATE to be on his team. He'd drive me absolutely nuts

[@adamschulz9475]

All completely valid points

[@HinatasBank]

In manga, they cut it in anime in this part. In that scene of manga they're talking about how good receivers are usually the quiet ones and not get enough credit for it and noya started talking about how good yaku is and admire him also Noya even said that Yaku is a combination of him and daichi😊

[@wesleymok7532]

19:28 The thing to consider Sarah is that many fans of Bokuto don't love him for his volleyball plays. They love him because he's a mood-swingy yet endearing himbo. He's not my favorite character either, but I do get why he has fans. Note to self: if ever on the east coast and have a chance to meet Sarah and Adam, cosplay as Bokuto and give the loudest, most public hey Hey HEY. Just for Sarah. 😈

[@starvein8841]

I think Nohebi is the closest thing we have to actual "villains" in the show. But, I do love the glimpse into what a team that "does everything it can" to win, looks like. Like it or not, unsportsman-like or not, even if all their snake-in-the-grass tactics nets them one extra point in a set, that might just make the difference.

[@Raymund662]

The real villain in Haikyuu!! is the Kitagawa Daiichi coach of Kageyama and Oikawa back then. Straight up really really really bad coaching and doesn't care about the growth of his players, so they're pretty much left on their own, hence the botched up dynamics among them.

[@starvein8841]

@raymundangelorobles3774 that's true, I'd agree with that. Do they explore that more in the manga? In the anime it seems like it's mostly left up to interpretation that the coach sucked (not unsimilar to when Karasuno's 3rd years first joined the team and the coach straight up dipped when the gym opened for practice).

[@tesshh1]

​@starvein8841 no, it's just a fan accepted theory, we don't see his coaching style, just the repercussions. And the Karasuno guy that dipped was actually an adviser, like Takeda, a coach in name only, the difference is that Takeda really cared and looked for a proper coach and practice And I wouldn't put Nohebi as villains, sure, they are the closest we are going to get and they aren't my favourite team by faaar but they never actually cheat, they push the limits of the rules, but never cheat, and have actual strategies. It also helps that Kuroo respects them so that my opinion of them is more positive

[@BlueJayzz-c4y]

​@@tesshh1no coaching style straight up "he did it better, he will play" blah blah

[@fatestaytilted8849]

The thing about Bokuto is he is VERY entertaining. But watching Sarah get annoyed made me realize I never thought about having a guy like that in my team. Having giving it some though I can understand why she does not like him. I still think he is funny tho

[@t3cchan]

I think "hot" isn't the best translation. As another commenter said, "beautiful" is probably a more accurate translation for what Lev called his sister.

[@SarahPavanVolleyball]

That's much better haha

[@hachi1404]

Great reaction as always!! I think some people love Bokuto because they understand his background and future development. As for me, I like him because he seems like a simpleton but isn’t a fool-for example, when he talked to Tsukki about 'the moment.' That said, my favorite players in this match are Kuro and Akaashi anyway.

[@tesshh1]

Anyone from Paetron is free to copy my comment since I doubt they'll read it here: Regarding Bokuto, first of, these matches aren't well adapted, at all, the most similar things are the scores and results, not even the last point is the same, so Fukurodani's dynamic isn't as explored as in the manga, we get to see other players in the team that are bearly mentioned here (the other match is also cut and a lot of characters end up being only mentioned), and of course he isn't perfect, no character in the series is, not even Akaashi, it wouldn't be realistic, if he were emotionally matured he'd be unstoppable, that's actually *the* reason why he isn't top 3 like Ushijima, not his lack of ability but his mentality, which is a new angle to view volleyball and a player's talent, every character, or team, represents a different way, path, of playing the sport. He needs flaws to be an interesting character, and just like Ushijima's bluntness angers some while representing others, Bokuto's emotional side, while it may frustrate some, it also represents a more sensitive group, and again all these guys are teenagers, sure he is a third year, but a teenager nonetheless, he should be allowed to take his own time to grow Also, there are amazing KZbin channels that analyse almost every character, match, message in Haikyuu, since they are all so complex and nuanced. One of them did a video on Bokuto that I looooove, sadly it's mostly about the manga so I can't recommend it to you, and I fear they'll cut Bokuto's story in order to finish with the freacking movie (which it's devastating because it hit really close to me and it's so important for the ending and the Haikyuu story and message in general) But the part that I CAN tell you about the video is that we never see things from Bokuto's perspective, it's more apparant in the manga, although it's something people stil miss, because we are never able to read his thoughts, while we hear/read absolutly everyone else's, every player from any team, coach, even every single other player on his own team, everyone except him. Everything we know about him is through others eyes, especially Akaashi's, but we don't actually know if it's true, and even if it is, it's not from his perspective. I feel it's an often overlooked fact that's so important on how we view his character. It's like an unreliable narrator. I can only hope that they give Bokuto the spot light he deserves for the sake of the story in general since it's so important, but also for his character's sake. Also, may I add, Bokuto is the first and, in a way, only top player (and even player in general) to take Hinata absolutly siriously from the very start, without even thinking of his height or their team level at their prefecture, wellcoming the challenge and helping him even if they are technically rivals, he is literally the reason Hinata started doing other things besides spiking. And of course the one that changed Tsukki's way of viewing the sport And, his team does depend on him, Akaashi told Tsukki after their practice match (many miss it because they are focused on Bokuto drulling) He tells him how Bokuto never falters when it matters and will lift the team's spirits when they are down just like they do when he goes emo, I hate so many don't listen to that part and are focused on the comidic bit because it makes their team dynamic so much deeper, it's not just a one way street or a funny gag. There is also way more to his character but as I said it'd be kind of a spoiler, not really because we already see his personality but knowing the reason behind it would be a spoiler. Ukai even considers Fukurodani's dynamic to be much better than Karasuno's but that gets into spoilers for Adam It may not look like it, but Bokuto isn't even my favourite character, I just would defend any of the characters with a lot of passion, but sorry it's long.

[@mistress.of.science]

All so wonderfully said!

[@Vnemes1sV]

And this is what's pisses me off. Finished manga spoilers down below, you have been warned. They're doing two fuckings movies for almost 100 chapters. Ain't no way we're getting Bokuto's Awakening or Akaashi's Task Focus. Like. We're missing 3 matches + one training arc after the Nekmoma match, AND THERE'S ONLY ONE MOVIE LEFT. And don't get me started on the Nekoma movie and all the important things they cut out. How on gods green earth are they suppose to do that? Making the rest of the series into two movies has had the same effect as Dragon Age: The Veilguard had to the Dragon Age series. Complete butchery of the source material.

[@tesshh1]

@Vnemes1sV yeaaah... I really don't know what the plan is. It's a pity because that match is unironically one of, if not my favourite. If they do another ova like this for it, I'll cry.

[@adamschulz9475]

You never have to apologize for a thoughtful comment. I really enjoyed reading this. It makes me want to read the manga so I can get a full appreciation of the character. It sound like there is a huge disconnect between the show and the story. I also thought your point about never hearing his thoughts was really interesting. We need to revisit this once I have read the manga.

[@tesshh1]

@@adamschulz9475 Ooooh, I'm so happy you could read my comment!! And I'm more excited that you'll read the manga, it's soooo worth it, everyone's stories are amazing, they all feel like their own main character (that's also why they aren't perfect), and there are soooo many details that have a pay off, that we will surely sadly not see animated. So I'm soooo glad

[@rebeccaseitz5255]

Hope I'm recalling correctly 4:05 in the Dub translation Lev says "I know, it runs in the family" hehaha 😆

[@CR-rw6dh]

Others have pointed out that "bijin" means beautiful and not "hot." But i want to add that the term doesn't have a direct english translation because it's not just tied to physical appearance, but also to traditional japanese beauty standards and art (meaning only japanese women can be "bijin"). In this case, Lev and his sister are half japanese, so being called a "bijin" probably has more significance than can be put into an english translation.

[@tesshh1]

Ohhh, I love learning this

[@CR-rw6dh]

@@tesshh1 There is even an entire art genre, Bijin-ga, that depicts Bijin.

[@tesshh1]

@@CR-rw6dh Woww I love to know more about that, this is one of the reasons I like watching reactors so much, I end up learning a lot from comments

[@CR-rw6dh]

@tesshh1 Yeah, there are a bunch of ways to call someone attractive, "kirei," "kawaii" or "suteki" are pretty common and dont have the same cultural implications. Granted, I'm not Japanese, and my comments are based on what I learned in college years ago, so usage of the term could have evolved (aka, being applied to people who are not Japanese or it being less tied to traditional japanese culture, ext.).

[@maribee3314]

Oooooh Adam I'm gonna argue w/you on that Yaku is the heart & soul of Nekoma comment. Do you remember ep11 of S1 when Kuroo appears behind those vb players who were bad mouthing Kenma for being too small, frail etc.? He says, "That frail shrimp is our "backbone", "brain" and "heart"." Which is incredibly sweet but heavily biased cuz he loves Kenma lol.😅 So ever since then after seeing Nekoma as team, how they play and interact and so on. Especially after this match, I came to the conclusion of who fits the "backbone" and "heart" title. Kenma is obviously the brain. To me Kuroo is the "heart" of Nekoma cuz not only is he the Captain. He really cares for him team and his player's, he listens to them, validates their feelings and yet hands out advice and so on. This is not limited to his own team as we all saw during the training camp. He just has a big heart all around.🥺 And "Yaku" to me is the "backbone" of Nekoma for obvious reasons and during this ep, what Lev says, that yaku will always get that ball regardless. In a team of defense he is still the one they count to be behind their backs. Hence the "backbone". For the "soul" part I'd say that's coach Nekomata who has imparted his play style and volleyball philosophy(in future ep) and so its ingrained into Nekoma's Volleyball. Team. Its all very fitting for a team with the motto of "CONNECT" Brain = Kenma Heart = Kuroo Backbone = Yaku Blood = (all the rest of the team) Soul = coach Nekomata and his vb philosophy & play style.

[@adamschulz9475]

This is an incredibly well thought out comment and I would agree with everything you said. Backbone is the correct term, and reflecting on what I was thinking in the moment is probably more in line with what I was trying to communicate. I really enjoyed thinking about this. Thank you for sharing!

[@bokobokogomi]

Not to spoil anything, but out of the people who root for Bokuto, I wonder how many started liking him in the manga episodes beyond the current anime.

[@accioravenclaw2052]

Yeah I didn't not like him before but his manga story is so good imo

[@yassin528]

It’s so sad that they will likely not cover that game in the movie since we don’t have time for that unfortunately.

[@bhavyashah9008]

I didn’t know the further manga chapters but still love bokuto absolutely.

[@melvinmacaulay711]

With the amount of pushback the fans are giving to have them animate that game im sure they will maybe as an Ova but they will ​@@yassin528

[@squuning8686]

Me, after reading the manga and rewatch the anime. My first time watching anime only focused on Karasuno lol

[@karabomasibi2331]

I honestly need them to adapt the rest of the manga... Just seeing how everyone's story wraps up is so beautiful in the end. IYKYK

[@MYLOVELYBOOKNOOK]

please read the manga and you'll understand why bokuto is a top tier character and player :(

[@nilexinator5901]

adam said about kuroo: your boy adam is wrong. he is our boy :D

[@stellacath5462]

Love this ova!!! Cant wait for season 4 ❤❤❤

[@submandave1125]

In Japanese, “bijin” doesn’t carry the same sexual connotation that “hot” often does in English. It’s more like they were calling her a beauty, which Lev knows.

[@adamschulz9475]

Yeah that’s fair, in the moment it came across a weird but the culture context makes a lot of sense

[@perevision]

I love Bokuto but Akaashi is in my top 3, so I enjoy that being annoyed with Bokuto makes Sarah appreciate Akaashi more. Also I haven’t laughed so much on a Friday morning, thank you guys

[@gh-ps5es]

4:04 JUST TO CLARIFY yaku actually says "As usual, Lev's sister is very beautiful" not "super hot". He says "Bi-jin" which means "beautiful person" and Lev agrees going "right?"

[@iamai_iggs]

if you think lev ever thinks through any of the words before they leave his mouth you don't know lev very well :))

[@Alex-ud4tl]

You need to get over hating "HEY HEY HEY" if you want to watch haikyuu. Simple

[@TownspersonB]

The first couple times I watched this, I did not realize Yaku saying Lev's dumps are too long meant that kind of dump as opposed to the volleyball kind, then I heard "unko" in the line and things clicked and it made more sense.

[@jenzy9379]

HEY HEY HEYYYYYYY

[@SonamSlash]

It’s past midnight but I made a bowl of popcorn to watch this reaction in particular

[@pollys6192]

Can we acknowledge once and for all that Akaashi is bearing the heaviest burden of the team just by babysitting Bokuto? That sure has to take a toll on his mental health, the guy deserves paid holidays

[@satomi7539]

Bokuto is so cute... I really love Bokuto-san and Akaashi relationship. I really love Oikawa and Iwa-chan relationship. In Japanese, hebi(Nohebi) means snake.

[@Psivox69]

God. When you guys get to the new movie that just dropped, SHEEEEEEESH it’s gonna be hype.

[@ghostlightning]

Yaku is your favorite libero's favorite libero. Bokuto isn't a favorite (and my favorite) because he's amazing the way Ushijima is (and no one is!), but because he's such a unique weapon that is exceptionally flawed and allows the show/manga to portray other kinds of excellence -- normal high school teams won't be able to get the best out of him AND their other players the way Furokodani does with Akaashi and the coaches. They were required to be mature in ways only Nekoma is mature. Nekoma is a team that thinks and acts to get the most out of their setter, who is averse to athletic effort (something I think is just as strange as Bokuto's psychology). Furokodani is a powerhouse at the national level, the strongest school in Tokyo (the biggest city). This makes them a great foil vs. Nekoma and makes them great rivals (Air vs. Land) owls vs. cats, different in interesting ways to how the crows of Karasuno are rivals with Nekoma. K vs N is more of a niche rivalry. The conceptual rivalries really are Karasuno vs. Shiratorizawa, and Furokodani vs. Nekoma. Volleyball idiots contrasting with intelligent volleyball tourists (the Hinatas, Kageyamas, Ushijimas, and Bokutos, vs. the Kenmas and Tsukishimas).

[@Senkir7]

just helping to complement the symbolism of land vs air. Nekoma's symbol is a cat while Fukurodani's is an owl

[@mariaana6710]

Hi! Is very interesting see anothers teams, because this manga animé does a really good job to make us care about a lot of characters. Even a manga spin off exist with this premise. Have a good week!

[@Waylorn]

I liked all the discussion around the reality of a player like Bokuto. Wonderful skills pulled down by instability. I do love to watch Fukurodani play in the show.

[@adamschulz9475]

Happens all the time. You have some players who are just gifted but can’t get out of their own way. I haven’t seen enough of the Bokuto arc to know if that’s the case but very common.

[@johnnyher559]

Not only is he akashi a good setter he is also upper moon 6

[@adamschulz9475]

😂

[@LH_ore]

Kenma is my boy too!. His friendship with Hinata gives me life. Loved that little pop quiz, have to make sure Adam is paying attention.😂

[@JeffVan604]

28:34 They made the guy look like a snake and they call him a snack because his team is Nohebi... Hebi in Japanese meaning.... Yup, Snake. Fukuro in Fukurodani means Owl in Japanese. Hence, the "Land vs Air" subtitle and Bokuto's hair and design.

[@Hvwkx]

there's a match in the manga that I doubt will get animated at this point, but I highly suggest checking out after you guys are caught up to the point of the movie. one of the best matches in the manga, featuring Fukurodani

[@Ketoske]

i really hope Sarah watches the movie alone an then with Adam lol

[@ヘビメタル]

Land vs Air has another meaning. Fukurou means owl in Japanese. It also has the meaning of cat vs owl.

[@dhhsfjhm]

I think Bokuto's championship match won't be shown in the next movie, but if it is, then it can be replaced why Bokuto is one of the 5 best strikers, and if not, you can read the manga, if I'm not mistaken, right after the match Karasuno - Nekoma, he reveals himself there as a person and proves his title, thanks for the reaction, you are the best

[@FroylanSaldaña-e2z]

I love Daichi but I really think that Kuro is the best caption we've seen on the series.

[@mykellederickpalad7883]

That eyebrow comment from adam is devious🤣😂 P.S About Yamamoto being Nekoma's Tanaka, probably yeah but their seniors play a huge part on how they would each react to this. Ryu would probably get rowdy but he wouldn't change his game. He takes so much from daichi and azumane to be distracted by this. Season 4 is gonna be a great test to his mental fortitude.

[@chrisbreezy-ryanbarbosa4320]

Unpopular opinion, but I heavily root for Fukurodani and Bokuto/Akaashi over Nekoma. They are just fun to watch. The team dynamic of having to cheer up Bokuto is hilarious

[@hatempire]

I think Bokuto and Fukurodani are more symbiotic and he's already useful that way, considering it's high school volleyball. When he's on points, he carries the team's moral on his shoulders. When he's down, the team carries him back. Being explosive is part of his vibe and, considered he doesn't have a stoic nature like Ushijima, not letting him playing his own volleyball could result in not having him in the long run due to lack of motivation. It's fair to allow him to be like that, since he's just a teenager at the end of the day. I am neither a player nor a coach, so maybe I said something stupid and sorry beforehand. Just my personal impression at first, as a Haikyuu enthusiast, and felt the need to share and, if anyone wants to jump in to answer this silly rambling, motivate a healthy discussion.

[@nacomendez]

PLEAAAAASE don't make us wait a whole week between OVAs 😭😭😭 please please pretty please give us an extra upload I can't wait until you start season 4!!

[@pyrokazu]

The Land Vs Air also refers to the two teams being the Cats of Nekoma on the Land and the Owls of Fukurodani in the air!

[@frankcayseron8637]

nekoma is cats, fukurodani is owls. cats are land, owls are air

[@angeloghenefuafo]

According to the show Bokuto is number 4 on their best ace ranking, So that's Sakusa Ushijima Kiryu Bokuto

[@davids128]

Sarah you are such a Kageyama sometimes I can’t 😂! Adam be like I wish I saw Yaku before the draft because he is so good and we did the draft not long ago. Sarah but it doesn’t matter since you didn’t *straight face*

[@XxILikePie03]

Best and Iconic moment!! Ace no Kokoroe

[@miguelroman9074]

Btw it’s not two it’s three last years winners the one with sakusa and komori the spiker and libero from the training camp got the first spot and now fukurtoni and now nekoma is fighting for the last one

[@copyright9039]

15:16 caught me by surprise I burst out laughing 😂

[@dorian8875]

HEY HEY HEY for Bokouto san 😍

[@zh.angela]

haha Sarah! I also wear my emotions on my sleeves! It's gotten me in a little trouble sometimes, but at least we're honest 🤷‍♀

[@aryanurag]

Just to counter a bit of the Bokuto bashing 😅 . We love him coz he's just a fun loving character. Yes he's a bit mentally weak at this stage but he's an excellent player & he loves volleyball. He's also super self aware in my opinion which I really like, he knows his weakness & though I'm pretty sure we are not going to see the Fukrodani vs Mujinzaka match, like others here I definitely recommend reading it after you are done with the Haikyuu Garbage dump battle movie. That match is seems to be written to convert Bokuto non believers into fans😅.

[@rainrix47]

The anime does a great disservice to Fukurodani as a team because it focuses too much on Bokuto. And sure, he’s the highlight, but we’ve seen on the training camp that his team being used to his slumps just means they are able to carry Bokuto when he’s on one. This match showed how well the other members of the team played in the manga, Fukurodani has always been a great team, we just never get to see it animated.

[@adamschulz9475]

I’m really looking forward to getting a more in depth picture of this team when I get sound to reading the manga.

[@マーチン-l5f]

The annual schedule for life after classes in Japan is as follows.

[@LeonardoPostacchini]

Yes Sarah, Bokuto is not perfect, that is what makes him a great character. He is not a Mary Sue. Flawless characters who have nothing to learn and nowhere to grow are not relatable and are boring.

[@ethanpiles3464]

Also the team mascots are land vs air, nekoma cats and fukurodani owls

[@meromeromellow2872]

Yaku was chosen as the libero on Furudate’s Dream Team and that speaks volumes

[@SWad250]

I’m glad these matches were covered, but the production restraints do show and flatten the content a bit too much for me. I do love the dynamic of the Nekoma cheer section and how it contrasts Karasuno’s. Akane is so adorable.

[@frost365]

its such a shame the anime dosent do Bokuto justice such shame Haikyuu Chapter 335

[@ArgKnoxville86]

I want to make a note that Nekoma does to Bokuto what Tsukki did to Ujishima (making him only hit one type of hit so that he would get confused when they switched the block). Only in this case IT WORKED. Demonstrating that indeed Ujishima is superior to Bokuto.

[@Greenfinite]

I don't think everybody consider Bokuto amazing in the sense of a player. What I'm pretty sure is that most people find him entertaining.

[@johnkisaragi5920]

I want the snake team to try their trash talk in America in the hood 😆 I wonder if they'd step up their game or be humbled at the real monkey business.

[@selensewar]

HEY, HEY, HEY!!!

[@Elg-24]

"ohhhh, he's going to take that in the face" Proceeds to get hit in the face (Wow, these two know volleyball)

[@BitesofAxel]

I love bokuto but im so scared that his arc is gonna be cut out from the haikyuu movie bc i loved the nekoma vs karsuno movie, but it did leave a lot out of the manga that i rlly liked.

[@imanahsan63]

Seriously hoping they don't cut out the fukurodani vs mujinazaka match so that anime onlies can see Bokuto's character development.

[@HCXWinchester]

Bokuto's arc is NOT over, I will not take this Bokuto slander :D :D :D

[@SamuelPulkkinen-jp8ev]

I'm pretty sure Land vs Air is a reference to Nekoma being "cats" (neko) and Fukurodani being "owls" (fukuro).

[@thatzzz]

Let's go!!!

[@Raymund662]

Sarah, I really appreciate your constructive feedback (not downright hating him) on Bokuto being loved by the Haikyuu!! fandom, on you mentioning that you can't put him at a certain level with other top players that's why you ain't liking him as much---which is pretty much understandable, no worries! This, however, is something that I only realized now after some reflection while watching this reaction video of yours regarding Bokuto and his team, especially as an AuDHDer (Autistic + ADHDer) neurodivergent who highly relates to him and a few other players who happen to be neurodivergent as well: Bokuto is mentally "weak" because he screams ADHDer like Hinata Shoyo (that's why their teacher-pupil relationship) which is pretty much a double-edged sword disability (hence his status as one of the Top 5 aces in the country despite his mood swings and long list of weaknesses), and his team Fukurodani is a perfect example of how to fully support and properly accommodate his ADHD neurotype despite the struggles along the way (given that their type of strength is a team that pulls their ace, not a team being pulled by their ace, although it's pretty much exhausting as you've described, but they don't ostracize nor shame him for it, otherwise that's lowkey ableism), especially his partner Akaashi (who is a very likely Autistic neurodivergent like Kageyama, Ushijima, Tendo, Kenma, and a Season 4 player with white and black hair---and Autism and ADHD are complementary neurotypes but a terrible combo when they're in a same person as AuDHD like mine). I hope that sheds some light about Bokuto so that you're gonna like him a little bit better, that he still is heavily competitively great moreso on his in-the-zone moments notwithstanding his double-edged sword disability . . . him being the very human embodiment of "The Way of the Ace". No wonder Haikyuu!! is one of my all-time fave shows across genres that I have been rewatching for the nth time thru reaction videos: it's really lowkey pro-neurodiverse people. P.S. It's the same way how Nekoma has been "trying to make life as easy as possible for their 'brain'" as Sarah said: they've been supporting and accommodating Kenma who's pretty much an Autistic neurodivergent, and similarly how Fukurodani deals with their Bokuto, Nekoma doesn't see this dynamic with Kenma as a weakness of theirs. Also, "It's really interesting to see these two approaches" as Adam said: then again, a reason for this is Bokuto is an ADHDer neurodivergent in Fukurodani while Kenma is an Autistic neurodivergent in Nekoma, aside from their personalities and athletic capabilities---it's just how their brain has been wired to work.

[@mani3001]

God, I remember reading Nekoma vs Nohebi, and Nohebi were soooo irritating. Still love Kuguri though 😂😂😂 Too bad he got very little screen time in the ova

[@Ben-v6z3s]

The land vs air metaphor also has to do with the fact that Fukurodani represent Owls whereas Nekoma represents cats

[@reincrafts9326]

The sheety boizzzzz 🦉😸

[@robertjames6936]

Common Bokuto enjoyer W. Common Bokuto hater (Sarah) L. 🤭