- 🏀 What’s the Best Way to Watch Slam Dunk? Here’s the Recommended Viewing Order!
- 🏀 What Is SLAM DUNK?
- 🏀 The Ultimate Slam Dunk Watch Order (2025 Edition)
- 🟢 Slam Dunk Streaming Availability – Which VOD Is Best for Binge-Watching?
- 🌸 A Quick Note for International Fans Using Japanese Streaming Services
- 🌍 SLAM DUNK – International Streaming Availability Table (TV Series + Movie)
- 🏀 Slam Dunk Highlights – What Makes Each Entry Worth Watching?
- 🏁 Final Whistle – Ready to Dive into Slam Dunk?
- ✅ Before You Go…
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Slam Dunk Watch Order Guide
🏀 What’s the Best Way to Watch Slam Dunk? Here’s the Recommended Viewing Order!
Let’s start with the answer: the best way to enjoy Slam Dunk is in this order — TV Anime → The 4 Classic Movies → THE FIRST SLAM DUNK (2022 Film).
Watching it this way lets you follow the character development and major matches in the most emotionally satisfying way possible.
In this guide, we’ll answer all the key questions, including:
- ✅ The recommended watch order (by timeline and release date)
- ✅ Highlights of each title and what extra content the movies add
- ✅ The latest streaming info as of 2025 — where to watch it, with subs/dubs
Whether you’re watching for the first time or revisiting this iconic series, this article will help you dive into the Slam Dunk universe the best way possible!
🏀 What Is SLAM DUNK?
Slam Dunk is a legendary sports anime that took the 1990s by storm. It follows the story of Hanamichi Sakuragi, a high schooler who stumbles into basketball and finds purpose, friendship, and fierce competition on the court. It’s packed with humor, heart, and unforgettable matches — and it still holds up perfectly today.
Ready? Let’s jump into the ultimate viewing order and see why each part of Slam Dunk is worth the hype!
🏀 The Ultimate Slam Dunk Watch Order (2025 Edition)
If you’re diving into Slam Dunk—or planning a nostalgic rewatch—this is the best way to experience the story. This list blends the TV anime with all the movies in a way that keeps the emotional flow and character arcs tight. Let’s go!
| Watch Order | Title | Why Here? (Friendly Notes) |
|---|---|---|
| ① | TV Anime Episodes 1–19 | Start with the basics! This sets up Hanamichi’s journey and the core of the Shohoku team. It’s all about awkward beginnings, big dreams, and classic ’90s basketball vibes. |
| ② | Movie 1: Slam Dunk: The Movie (1994) | Slide this in after Episode 19. It’s a short side story during a training camp—nothing game-changing, but it adds more court action and helps flesh out Hanamichi’s growth. Totally worth it! |
| ③ | TV Episodes 20–36 | Back to the main storyline. Things are heating up, and the team dynamics get more serious. |
| ④ | Movie 2: Conquer the Nation, Hanamichi Sakuragi! (1994) | Pop this in after Episode 36. It lines up with the early Inter-High arc. Think of it like an extended TV episode with that vintage movie touch. |
| ⑤ | TV Episodes 37–60 | Now we’re in the thick of it—crucial games, deeper rivalries, and emotional stakes start to rise. |
| ⑥ | Movie 3: Sakuragi’s Hot-Blooded Basketball Dunk! (1995) | Watch this after Episode 60. It’s not essential to the plot, but it shows the team dealing with tough emotions after a major loss. More character depth, especially if you like Shohoku’s group bond. |
| ⑦ | TV Episodes 61–84 | Pure gold. Some of the most intense matches and turning points are here. Honestly, some of the best sports anime episodes ever. |
| ⑧ | Movie 4: Roar Basketball Man Spirit!! (1995) | Insert this after Episode 84. It focuses more on Rukawa and his middle school connections. You could skip it, but if you’re a Rukawa fan, it’s a nice bonus! |
| ⑨ | TV Episodes 85–101 (Finale) | Finish strong. These last episodes bring everything together and set the stage for the manga’s legendary final arc. Emotional payoff? Absolutely. |
| ⑩ | Movie 5: THE FIRST SLAM DUNK (2022) | Watch this last, after the full series. It’s a stunning modern reboot of the iconic Sannoh match—gorgeous animation, faithful adaptation, and a total love letter to longtime fans. Watching this after the original series makes it hit so much harder. Goosebumps guaranteed. |
💡 Why This Order Works Best:
- It preserves the emotional momentum of the story while weaving in the movies naturally.
- The older movies are mostly non-canon side stories, but they deepen your connection to the characters when placed at the right moments.
- Ending with THE FIRST SLAM DUNK gives you a fresh cinematic experience just when you’re most invested. Think of it as the final dunk after a perfect fast break.
🟢 Slam Dunk Streaming Availability – Which VOD Is Best for Binge-Watching?
Here’s the current streaming status for Slam Dunk as of April 2025.
🔍 How to Read the Table
- ⭕: Available for unlimited streaming (subscription)
- ⭐: Available as rental
- ❌: Not available
📺 Streaming Status by VOD
| VOD Platform | Slam Dunk (TV Anime Series) | Movie 1: Slam Dunk | Movie 2: Conquer the Nation! Hanamichi Sakuragi | Movie 3: Shohoku’s Greatest Crisis! Burning Hanamichi Sakuragi | Movie 4: Roar Basketball Man Spirit!! Hanamichi and Rukawa’s Hot Summer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| d Anime Store | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ |
| U-NEXT | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ |
| Abema Premium | ⭕ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ⭕ |
| Hulu | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ |
| Amazon Prime Video | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ |
| DMM TV | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ | ⭕ |
📌 Notes:
- This chart is based on information available as of April 2025.
- Please check each platform’s website for the most up-to-date availability.
- If you’re planning to binge-watch the TV series, the best choices are d Anime Store, U-NEXT, Hulu, and DMM TV—they offer full access to both the series and the movies.
🌸 A Quick Note for International Fans Using Japanese Streaming Services
Thinking of watching Slam Dunk on Japanese platforms like U-NEXT, d Anime Store, or DMM TV?
Here are a few friendly tips before you dive in:
- 🌍 Region-Locked: Most Japanese services are only accessible from within Japan. If you’re outside the country, you’ll likely need a VPN set to Japan.
- 🗣️ Language Barrier: These platforms usually offer Japanese audio only, and most content comes with Japanese subtitles only (no English subs or dubs).
- 💳 Payment Methods: Many services require a Japanese credit card or local billing info. Some international cards might not work.
- 📲 Mobile-Only Apps: Some content can only be watched through official apps (not browsers), especially for d Anime or DMM.
🎌 Still curious?
Using a VPN and trial account can be a fun way to explore the original Japanese experience—but for convenience, services like Crunchyroll or Netflix (in supported regions) are usually better for subs/dubs!
🌍 SLAM DUNK – International Streaming Availability Table (TV Series + Movie)
| Platform | Region(s) | TV Series (1993–1996) | THE FIRST SLAM DUNK (2022 Film) | Audio | Subtitles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Netflix | AUS, NZ, Canada, parts of EU, USA (limited) | ✅ Available | ✅ Available (JP: June 10, 2024 / Global: Aug 25, 2023) | Japanese, Spanish (some English dub) | English, Spanish |
| Crunchyroll | Global (USA, EU, Asia, etc.) | ✅ Available | ✅ Available | Japanese, English Dub | English (multi-language varies) |
| Amazon Prime Video | USA, CA, select regions | ⭐ Rent or Purchase | ⭐ Rent or Purchase | Japanese | English |
🗒️ Legend
- ✅ = Available for streaming (included with subscription)
- ⭐ = Available as rental or digital purchase
- ❌ = Not available in that region
- *JP = Japan release date
🔍 Recommendations Based on Your Location
- 🌐 For Global Audiences (outside Japan):
- ▶️ Crunchyroll is the best option for both the TV series and THE FIRST SLAM DUNK movie, with sub and dub support.
- ▶️ Netflix is ideal if you’re in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, or have access to regions with the film catalog. Great for multi-language subtitles.
- ▶️ Amazon Prime is fine for purchasing/renting, but not ideal for subscription-based bingeing.
- 🇯🇵 If accessing via Japan or VPN:
- Use U-NEXT, dアニメストア, or DMM TV for full access to both anime and films.
🏀 Slam Dunk Highlights – What Makes Each Entry Worth Watching?
| Title | Why You’ll Love It 💖 | What It Adds 🌟 |
|---|---|---|
| TV Anime (1993–1996) | Classic Slam Dunk energy! Hanamichi’s wild ride from total newbie to passionate baller is packed with laughs, tears, and game-time adrenaline. | The heart of the series! Character development, rivalries, and all the iconic matches. A full-course meal 🍱 for fans. |
| Movie 1: Slam Dunk (1994) | A short and sweet bonus game! See Shohoku take on a new team during training camp. | Great for more court action and gives you a closer look at Hanamichi’s early struggles. 🏃♂️💨 |
| Movie 2: Conquer the Nation! Hanamichi Sakuragi (1994) | A mini Inter-High experience! This movie has serious “we’re just getting started” vibes. | Extra match scenes that weren’t in the anime. If you’re hungry for more basketball, this hits the spot. 🏆 |
| Movie 3: Shohoku’s Greatest Crisis! (1995) | More drama, more heart. Focuses on how the team deals with a crisis after a tough loss. | Adds emotional depth! It’s all about the power of friendship and bouncing back together. 💪😭 |
| Movie 4: Roar Basketball Man Spirit!! (1995) | Rukawa fans, this one’s for you! It explores his connection to a younger player from middle school. | Not essential plot-wise, but a cool side story that gives Rukawa more spotlight. 🐺✨ |
| THE FIRST SLAM DUNK (2022) | A modern masterpiece. Gorgeous animation, intense pacing, and the long-awaited Sannoh match brought to life! | A love letter to the manga. It ties everything together and takes your Slam Dunk feels to the next level. Perfect finale. 🔥🏀🎬 |
💡Fan Tip:
If you’re emotionally invested in the team (and let’s be real—who isn’t?), don’t skip the movies! They’re like behind-the-scenes moments that deepen your bond with the characters.
Think of it like cheering for your fave idol group: the main concert (TV series) is amazing, but the bonus footage (movies) makes you love them even more 💓
🏁 Final Whistle – Ready to Dive into Slam Dunk?
Whether you’re a total newbie or a returning fan, watching Slam Dunk in the right order makes all the difference. You’ll laugh, tear up, cheer from your seat, and maybe even pick a favorite player to “oshi” forever 🏀💘
📝 Here’s What We Covered:
- ✅ The best watch order to enjoy the story in full
- ✅ Highlights of each anime/movie and why they’re worth watching
- ✅ The latest 2025 streaming info so you can jump in right away
🎯 So What’s Next?
👉 Grab your snacks, pick your streaming platform, and start your Slam Dunk journey today!
And hey—if you end up shouting “Shohoku, fight!” at your screen… don’t worry, you’re officially one of us now 😄
💬 Did this guide help?
Feel free to leave a comment with your favorite match, moment, or character. And if you’ve got fellow anime fans who haven’t watched Slam Dunk yet… now’s the time to rope them in!
📢 Push that play button, and let’s make some basketball memories!
✅ Before You Go…
📌 Looking for more watch order guides?
Check out our latest articles for more must-watch anime journeys:
- 🎯 Reborn! (Katekyo Hitman Reborn) – Chronological Viewing Guide
- 🏀 Kuroko’s Basketball – Complete Watch Order for Beginners
- 🏔️ Golden Kamuy – The Complete Watch Order Guide
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And don’t forget to follow us for more anime watch orders, timeline breakdowns, and fangirl-worthy recommendations. ✨
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Slam Dunk Watch Order Guide
1. What is the best watch order for Slam Dunk?
The recommended viewing order is:
TV Anime Series → Movie 1–4 → THE FIRST SLAM DUNK (2022).
This preserves the natural story flow, builds emotional payoff, and lets you fully enjoy both the classic and modern takes on the series.
2. Is THE FIRST SLAM DUNK connected to the original anime?
Yes — it’s a modern remake of the Sannoh match from the original manga. While the TV series stops before that arc, the movie adapts it with new animation and deeper character focus. Watching the anime series first makes the film much more powerful.
3. Where can I watch Slam Dunk online (2025 update)?
- TV Series: Available on Crunchyroll, Netflix (in select regions), Hulu Japan, and Amazon Prime Video (rental).
- Movies 1–4: Mostly found on Japanese VODs like d Anime Store and U-NEXT.
- THE FIRST SLAM DUNK: Available on Netflix (JP/global), and Crunchyroll internationally.
Tip: Crunchyroll is your best bet for both the series and 2022 movie with English subtitles or dub.
4. Is there an English dub of Slam Dunk?
Yes! Crunchyroll offers an official English dub of the TV anime. Subtitled versions (English, Spanish, etc.) are also available on major platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video depending on your region.
5. Are the Slam Dunk movies canon? Can I skip them?
The 1990s movies (1–4) are non-canon side stories, but they add fun matches and extra character moments. While skippable, watching them after key anime arcs enhances the emotional connection—especially for fans of Hanamichi or Rukawa.
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