The thing that really strikes me in the anime is the main protagonist. Characters are the usually the most critical part of an anime for me, and I was very surprised. Typically, the main character in a sports/shounen anime is always determined to be the "ace" or the best. However, that is not the case in Kuroko no Basket. Kuroko, who is a short and weak first year tries out for the Seirin basketball team. As the "phantom man" and sixth member of the five generation of miracles, Kuroko is relatively unknown. Unlike most sports anime, the main protagonist is supporting the deuteragonist, Kagami, in Kagami's to become the best in Japan.
The anime mainly focuses on the relationship between Kuroko and Kagami and how they develop together (along with the rest of the Seirin team). Throughout the episodes, the development in all characters are very prominent. The interactions with each other, (and other teams) are very enjoyable and engaging. Each character is individualised, and has a unique set of characteristics. The players on Serien all have skills and abilities that help to influence and compliment the skills of other players on the team. By working together, they improve not only their own basketball style, but the others as well.
Also, unlike anime several other basketball anime, Kuroko no Basket has some unrealistic features, such as skills. (ex. Kuroko's "vanishing drive" or Akashi's "emperor eye") Although, this makes the anime interesting. The games are more intense, and watching the characters develop and gain those skills is very enjoyable.
For a sports anime, Kuroko no Basket has very good art. The animation is very fluid, however it isn't a masterpiece. Taking the anime's budget into consideration, the animation is terrific. The art adds on to the overall watching experience, and the style is very good.
Overall, I would say that Kuroko no Basket is a great show. As a basketball player myself, I can see how some people view the show as "unrealistic" however, the skills are based on actual moves used by professional players. (ex Kagami's meteor jam was based on a slam dunk initiated by leaping over the free throw line) I think that most shounen fans would be very pleased by Kuroko no Basket.
