"Awkward" (Japanese: ぎくしゃく Gikushaku) is the two hundred twenty-fifth chapter of the Haikyū!! series written and illustrated by Haruichi Furudate. It was published in the 45th issue of Weekly Shōnen Jump's 2016 series.
Overview[]
Karasuno shows improved teamwork and plays after resolving Kageyama's issue, but the team still struggles to build a solid lead over Date Tech. Having realized that Hinata's decoy is ineffective, Karasuno is ready to pull out a new tactics to gain momentum.
Plot[]
Kageyama acknowledges his shortcomings in communication but promises his team that he only has good intention to become the best setter. Coach Ukai tells Kageyama it's okay to not understand others and advices him to focus on his teammates' conditions and the current game state.
The practice match progresses to the fourth set. Tsukishima scores on Date Tech with his improved jump, but the increased effort is taking a toll on his stamina. On the sidelines, Hinata explains to his teammates that Tsukishima starting jumping higher during the training camp in order to coordinate with Koganegawa's unpolished tosses. Eventually, Tanaka forces a block out and enthusiastically asks for more tosses. However, Kageyama insists Tanaka be subbed out for being tired, much to the latter's annoyance. Kageyama has yet to fully grasp how to properly communicate, but his teammates are willing to assist him in the process.
While Karasuno is working out a few kinks, Date Tech is on top of their game and executes a perfect serve-and-block combo to stop Hinata's direct spike. Coach Ukai is relieved that only Futakuchi has a powerful serve but is silenced when Aone attempts one himself. Although the serve lands out-of-bounds, Ukai quickly recognized Date Tech as a threatening opponent for next year. Toward the end of the fourth set, Hinata finds his decoy ineffective as Date Tech successfully blocks Daichi's spike. During the timeout, Coach Ukai attempts to suggest a new tactic and is surprised to find Hinata already on the same page.
Appearances[]
Chapter notes[]
Character revelations[]
- Aone has yet to perfect his jump serve but shows potential to become a powerful server.
- According to Coach Ukai, Date Tech could be the top contender for Karasuno the following year.
Trivia []
- In commemoration of the Karasuno vs Date Tech practice match and Halloween, a center color page consists of Aone (Frankenstein), Futakuchi (zombie), and Koganegawa (vampire) dressed up for the occasion. The text reads: "Happy Halloween!!"