: Because of his profound respect for Coach Anzai, Mitsui chose to attend Shohoku High School to play for him, turning down offers from prestigious basketball powerhouses. The Turning Point
: While sidelined, he watched from the bleachers as Akagi, who was less skilled at the time, began to improve and receive the attention Mitsui craved. The combination of physical pain and the feeling of being replaced eventually led him to quit basketball and fall in with a delinquent crowd. Current Events Slam Dunk (Dub) Episode 26
Starting To Make Sense Now | Slam Dunk Episode 26 | Reaction : Because of his profound respect for Coach
: During a freshman practice session, Mitsui pushed himself too hard and suffered a severe knee injury. Current Events Starting To Make Sense Now |
In the present day, the episode context is set during Mitsui's violent invasion of the Shohoku gym. As the gym fight continues, the revelations about his past begin to explain his deep-seated resentment toward the basketball team—it is rooted in his own lost passion and regret.
: During his middle school years at Takeishi Junior High, Mitsui was a star basketball player. During a high-stakes championship game where his team trailed by one point with only nine seconds left, he nearly gave up.