Anzai Mitsuyoshi

The coach of Shohoku High's Basketball Team. Also known to his students as Anzai-sensei (Sakuragi calls him 'Oyaji' which means old man). In the past, he was a very strict coach, and was known as 'The White-haired Ghost' by his fellow students. However, he is totally different now - very gentle, calm and never gets angry - his nickname has now been changed to 'The White-haired Buddha'. Appearance wise, he is plump and we can occasionally hear his trademark laughter - Ho, ho, ho...! Because of his size, Sakuragi constantly pulls his double chin and pats his bulging tummy! 

When he was young, he used to play for the 'All Japan Basketball Team'. This makes him a wonderful coach, guiding his students with the best techniques. During the inter-school games, Anzai would usually sit by the side, watching the players and picking up the opponents' weaknesses. He also always holds Sakuragi back during the game - telling him that he is Shohoku's Secret Weapon. From his view, he can see that Sakuragi and Rukawa are the potential players of Shohoku High and would one day be one of the best players in the whole of Japan.