Sports anime, almost by definition, rely on direct competition to build drama. Whether they are getting punched repeatedly in the face, lifting heavy objects, or doing a bit of ice skating, these shows have the spirit of competition at their heart, so why do so many of the main characters end up losing the big game at the end? Because anime like Yuri!!! on Ice, Haikyu!!, and Slam Dunk aren’t about winning – they’re about losing. Welcome to Popverse Jump, a weekly column about anime, manga, and the ways in which they impact the world (and the ways the world shapes manga and anime, as a result). This week, we're talking about winning, losing, and the way we're playing the game.

Many of the best sports anime follow the formula that the story isn't really about winning the big match, but losing - and