As we welcome 2024, the anime scene is gearing up for an exciting array of sports-themed series that are bound to engage fans with their vibrant storytelling and fierce competition. Whether you’re passionate about basketball, soccer, or even lesser-known sports, this year has something in store for everyone. From the eagerly awaited continuations of fan-favorite franchises to innovative new titles that challenge the norms of the genre, these upcoming sports anime are set to motivate and entertain. Prepare to root for your favorite characters as they tackle the hurdles of teamwork, rivalry, and personal development in their pursuit of success.
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Join us as we explore the 10 most anticipated sports anime of 2024, showcasing what makes each series a must-see and how they are likely to resonate with audiences worldwide.
10 Hey! Tonbo
Release Date: Apr 6 to Jun 29, 2024
Genre: Sports, Drama
Episodes: 13
Studio: OLM
Hey! Tonbo (オーイ! とんぼ, Oh! Tonbo) is a sports anime that uniquely presents the genre. The story revolves around Tonbo Oi, a girl who after losing her parents tries to find solace and purpose in playing golf on the supposed Tokara Islands. The series comprises 13 episodes, each lasting about 24 minutes The anime is produced by Shogakukan and is set to air on MBS. The anime is expected to combine golf, life challenges, and emotional storytelling to create an engaging narrative that will engage the audience. With promising animation, soundtracks, and character designs, this anime is sure to be a hit among sports anime fans.
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09 Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc
Release Date: Jul 7 to Sep 23, 2024
Genre: Sports, Comedy, Action
Episodes: 12
Studio: Production I.G
The Kinnikuman: Perfect Origin Arc is set to Premiere on Jul 7, 2024, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original TV anime. Based on the original wrestling manga by Yudetamago, this anime adaptation continues the legacy of Kinnikuman.” Production IG took charge. The story follows the elite Perfect Origins, who are among the elite of the Perfect Chojin factions, who are wrestlers. The series comprises 12 episodes, each lasting about 24 minutes. Promising exciting action and character development, fans can expect an updated take on the beloved series with nostalgia as it follows the perfect origin arc from the manga.
08 Highspeed Étoile
Release Date: Apr 6 to Jul 22, 2024
Genre: Sports
Episodes: 12
Studios: Studio A-CAT
Highspeed Étoile (ハイスピード エトワール) is an original anime series set to Premiere on April 6, 2024, combining the world of ballet dreams and high-speed racing. Rin Rindou, a former ballet dancer turned NEET gamer, is thrust into the world of racing where vehicles can travel at speeds of up to 500 km/h. Shogakukan produces the series, promising a unique blend of sports and character-driven storytelling in conjunction with the Japanese Super Formula Championship. The series comprises 12 episodes, each lasting about 24 minutes.
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07 Rinkai!
Release Date: Apr 9 to Jun 25, 2024
Genre: Sports
Episodes: 12
Studio: TMS Entertainment
Rinkai! is an engaging anime that revolves around women’s cycling, particularly highlighting the sport of keirin, which originated in Japan shortly after World War II. The plot follows Izumi Itō, a high school student with a deep passion for cycling. After being inspired by an exciting race featuring elite female cyclists, she decides to pursue her dream of becoming a racer, despite the numerous challenges and tough realities that come with it. Along her journey, she encounters her future rival, the skilled Nana Hiratsuka, which adds a rich mix of competition and camaraderie to the story. The series comprises 12 episodes, each lasting about 23 minutes. Rinkai! is produced by TMS Entertainment and can be streamed on platforms such as Crunchyroll and Tokyo MX.
06 Rising Impact
Release Date: Jun 22 to Sep 7, 2024
Genre: Drama, Comedy, Sports
Episodes: 12
Studios: Lay-duce
Rising Impact (ライジングインパクト) is an exciting sports anime that chronicles the journey of Gawain Nanaumi, a young boy with a natural flair for golf. After meeting a professional golfer, he shifts his focus from baseball to mastering the game of golf. The first season features 12 episodes, each lasting around 24 minutes. It premiered on June 22, 2024, and can be streamed on Netflix. The narrative showcases Gawain’s evolution as he encounters various challenges and vibrant characters while chasing his dream of becoming a top golfer, resonating with viewers through its themes of determination and love for sports. Season 2 is scheduled to debut on August 6, 2024, continuing Gawain’s journey in the competitive golf arena.
05 Narenare Cheer for You!
Release Date: Jul 7 to Sep 22, 2024
Genre: Sports
Episodes: 12
Studio: P.A. Works
Narenare Cheer for You! (Na-Nare Hana-Nare) centers around Misora Kanata, a first-year student at Takanosaki High School. After achieving a national championship in middle school cheerleading, she faces challenges with her jumps due to a traumatic incident during a competition. As she connects with fellow cheerleaders Suzuha, Shion, Anna, Nodoka, and Megumi, they come together to form a new team called the PoMPoMs. Their mission is to inspire and uplift those they cheer for, transcending traditional cheerleading to create a positive impact in their community. The series beautifully delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and personal growth. It consists of 12 episodes, each lasting around 23 minutes. Viewers can catch “Narenare Cheer for You!” on streaming platforms such as Crunchyroll, Amazon Video, and Apple TV.
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04 Kengan Ashura Season 2 Part 2
Release Date: Aug 15 to Nov 28, 2024
Genre: Action, Sports
Episodes: 16
Studio: Larx Entertainment
Kengan Ashura Season 2 Part 2 (ケンガンアシュラ Season2 Part2) is set to premiere in 2024, continuing the action-packed martial arts anime. The second part of the anime series is highly anticipated, and fans can’t wait for the continuation of this exciting story. awaited. The sequel promises to bring the original story to a thrilling conclusion, delivering the long-awaited finals of the Kengan Annihilation Tournament. It is expected to cover the remaining chapters. Anime by Cygames Developed and animated by CygamesPictures, and will be available on Netflix. As fans eagerly await the second part of season two, “Kengan Ashura” is enthralling the audience with its captivating narrative and adrenaline-pumping action. Fans can look forward to the release of “Kengan Ashura” Season 2 Part 2 in 2024, which promises to deliver a thrilling and gripping narrative.
03 Oblivion Battery
Release Date: Apr 10 to Jul 3, 2024
Genre: Comedy, Sports
Episodes: 12
Studio: MAPPA
Oblivion Battery (忘却バッテリー, Bōkyaku Batterī) is an engaging sports anime that centers around Haruka Kiyomine, a remarkable pitcher, and Kei Kaname, a gifted catcher often referred to as the “Skilled General.” Once a formidable pair in middle school baseball, their lives take an unexpected twist when they both join Tokyo Municipal Kotesashi High School, a place not known for its baseball prowess. The story deepens as Kei experiences amnesia, erasing all memories of his past, including his bond with Haruka and their mutual passion for baseball. The series showcases their quest to reignite Kei’s love for the game while also reuniting with other former star players they once bested. Together, this diverse group aims to revive their aspirations and compete in high school baseball. The anime features 12 episodes, each lasting around 23 minutes, and is produced by the acclaimed studio MAPPA.
02 Blue Box
Release Date: Oct 3, 2024 to Winter 2025
Genre: Romance, Sports, Slice of Life
Episodes: 25
Studio: Telecom Animation Film
Blue Box (Ao no Hako) is a captivating anime series that blends sports and romance, centering around Taiki Inomata, a dedicated badminton player aiming for the national championships. Set against the backdrop of a competitive high school, Taiki develops feelings for Chinatsu Kano, a skilled upperclassman on the basketball team. Their dynamic shifts unexpectedly when Chinatsu moves in with Taiki while her parents are away, creating opportunities for their bond to grow beyond just sports. This series is based on the well-loved manga by Kouji Miura and consists of 25 episodes, each running about 20-24 minutes. “Blue Box” debuted on October 3, 2024, with new episodes airing weekly on Thursdays, available for streaming on Netflix.
01 Blue Lock 2nd Season
Release Date: Oct 5 to Dec 29, 2024
Genre: Action, Drama, Sports
Episodes: 14
Studio: 8-Bit
Blue Lock 2nd Season (ブルーロック第2期) is a highly anticipated release set to premiere in Fall 2023 for football fans and continue until 2024. Studio 8-bit, directed by Keisuke Shinohara, adapts volumes 12-23 of the manga. Following Yoichi Isagi’s quest to become the world’s best striker, this season takes the players to the third selection, competing to make the team compete against Japan’s national under-20 team. “Blue Lock 2nd Season” offers a deep story and character development, making it a must-watch for football fans.
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Conclusion
As the sports anime scene continues to evolve, the upcoming releases in 2024 promise to deliver a diverse range of stories, from tennis competitions to golf challenges, wrestling bouts, high-speed racing, and soccer trials. Keep an eye out for more updates as we eagerly await the premiere of these highly anticipated sports anime. Get ready to cheer for your favorite teams and athletes in the exhilarating world of sports anime!
