Even though he's just a high school volleyball player whose favorite food is milk bread, Tooru Oikawa is regarded as one of Haikyuu!'s main antagonists. Though his cocky, childish behavior doesn't make him the most likable character in the show, he's still one of the most popular characters.

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Despite his less-than-savory traits, Oikawa has done several things that improved his likability throughout the series. Whether or not one admits it, Oikawa is an outstanding volleyball player and an even better teammate. Oikawa's best moments are when he puts his bravado on the backburner and focuses on what's before him.

10 Oikawa Gave Kageyama Advice

Oikawa's humiliating photo Of Kageyama bowing in Haikyuu!

When Kageyama and Hinata couldn't quite see eye-to-eye, the former sought out the advice from his long-time rival. When he approached Oikawa about it, he was respectful and even bowed his head. Of course, Oikawa couldn't let this go ignored, so he forced his nephew to take a photo of the moment.

However, Oikawa truly did offer Kageyama a new perspective. Once again, he fell into his role as the tyrannical "King of the Court" and ignored his teammates' wishes. Oikawa told him that he should listen to what his teammates need and let them grow on their own. He also told Kageyama that, as a setter, it's his job to accommodate each spiker.

9 Oikawa Learned The Importance Of Being A Good Teammate

Aoba Johsai Team By The Court in Haikyuu!

Though it took Iwaizumi literally beating the sentiment into him, Oikawa learned the importance of being a good teammate. After headbutting him in the face, Iwaizumi called Oikawa out for his constant use of "I" and "me" statements and reminded him that he was not the only person on the team.

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After that, he understood that his performance wasn't the only thing that mattered. He learned how to draw the best out of each of his teammates, which is why Aoba Johsai is such a formidable team.

8 Oikawa Stayed With Aoba Johsai So He Could Face Ushijima Once Again

Oikawa from Haikyuu!

Most third-year students quit the sport they play after losing in a tournament. However, Oikawa stayed with the team with the intention of getting revenge on Shiratorizawa at the Interhigh Finals.

Since Ushijima is one of Oikawa's longtime rivals, he was absolutely determined to defeat him once and for all. Ultimately, his plan failed since Aoba Johsai lost to Karasuno in the Interhigh Preliminaries, which proves Oikawa's mental resilience. Even though he couldn't play against Shiratorizawa, Oikawa still showed up and watched their game against Karasuno.

7 Oikawa Recognized Kageyama's Improvement

Oikawa from Haikyuu

Right before the end of Aoba Johsai and Karasuno's first official match, Oikawa recognized Kageyama's strengths. Oikawa mentally praised him for his improvements and even noted that Kageyama's growth frightened him. Even though Oikawa's team beat Kageyama's just seconds after this revelation, it was still a pivotal moment.

It showed that Oikawa could recognize his opponents' strengths and even foresee their potential. It also proved that Oikawa acknowledges that he isn't invincible and that he understands that a better player might be looming around the corner.

6 Oikawa Admitted That He Could Never Set A Ball With Pinpoint Accuracy

Oikawa focusing during a game (Haikyuu!)

Though his bravado would have one believe otherwise, Oikawa is a humble player. Behind his cockiness and braggart exterior is a player who simply understands his strengths and weaknesses. He doesn't underestimate himself, nor does he try to overachieve and perform things beyond his skill level.

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Oikawa openly admitted to Iwaizumi that he could never dream of setting the ball with pinpoint accuracy like Kageyama. This upset Iwaizumi, but it was an honest confession. Oikawa realized that what one player can do, he probably can't. Everybody has strengths and weaknesses, and Oikawa realizes that.

5 Oikawa Recognized Daichi's Strength As A Captain

Oikawa Tōru from Haikyu

After Daichi was knocked unconscious during Karasuno's game against Wakutani Minami, the team lacked a captain. Oikawa was watching the game with Iwaizumi, and the two speculated about what this meant for Karasuno.

Oikawa recognized that, as a captain, Daichi was a strong all-rounder. He served as the team's foundation, and losing him would spell trouble for Karasuno. Oikawa acknowledged Daichi's role for Karasuno, especially after seeing Ennoshita substituted in on his behalf. He observed the game and accurately concluded that Karasuno's entire playstyle shifted because they were without a captain. Oikawa recognizes and respects the strength Daichi lends to his team and how well he fulfills his role.

4 Oikawa Knew How To Deal With Kyotani

Oikawa and Kyotani (Haikyuu!)

Kyotani is an aggressive, vulgar player who refuses to respect anybody aside from Iwaizumi. However, Oikawa found a way to put him in his place and force him not to be such a "mad dog" all the time. Since he was the one who asked Kyotani to return to the team, it was up to Oikawa to help him get along with the rest of the team.

While others would react just as aggressively to Kyotani's behavior, Oikawa would smile at him and respond with subtle intimidation. He wouldn't get offended by Kyotani's provocations or insults and would instead try to kill him with kindness.

3 Oikawa Put Everything He Had Into Volleyball From A Young Age

Oikawa and Iwaizumi playing volleyball as children (Haikyuu!)

As it goes for most of the series' most important characters, Oikawa has always been passionate about volleyball. In his childhood, he would constantly watch matches. When he wasn't doing that, he was playing volleyball with Iwaizumi.

Ever since he was a child, Oikawa would try to perfect some of the most complicated volleyball plays, such as a jump serve. He put an impressive amount of time and effort into his skills, and his dedication shines through every time he steps on the court. Oikawa's lifelong hard work made him into the monster of a player he is today.

2 Oikawa Taught His Nephew How To Play Volleyball

Oikawa and his nephew (Haikyuu!)

In his free time, Oikawa coaches a children's volleyball team at "Lil Tykes Volleyball Classroom." Even though we didn't see much of this side of Oikawa, it's a piece of information that certainly improves his likability.

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Even though he has studies and other responsibilities outside of volleyball, he still makes time to teach the younger generation about his favorite sport. It also puts a massive dent in his facade of pure arrogance and bravado. Fans wish they could have seen more of Oikawa's coaching skills.

1 Oikawa Doesn't Regret Not Going To Shiratorizawa

Ushijima and Oikawa from Haikyuu!

One of the most memorable moments in Haikyuu! was when Ushijima confronted Oikawa and said that he should have enrolled at Shiratorizawa Academy instead of Aoba Johsai. He also implied that such a decision was why he lost to Karasuno.

Oikawa was quick to correct him. He said that he would never regret his choices. Then, he said that Karasuno would beat Shiratorizawa in the finals. Not only did he stand up to his rival, but he also endorsed his former opponents. This moment proved Oikawa is an honorable player and that he would never be swayed from his convictions.