Ilima serves as the Trial Captain of Meleme Island's Verdant Cavern, specializing in Normal-type Pokémon.
In the Games:
Ilima graduated from the Trainer's School on Route 1 and is celebrated as a hero by its students, earning him the nickname "Prince of the Trainer's School." Typically courteous and dignified, Ilima transforms into a fierce competitor during Pokémon battles. The player first encounters Ilima at the Trainer’s School with Professor Kukui after defeating a Teacher there. Later, he appears at the Marina when Team Skull disrupts his conversation with the player, challenging the player to a battle afterward.
Guiding the player through their initial trial in Verdant Cavern, Ilima can later be found studying Pokémon battling techniques in his room above a shop in Hau'oli City. He challenges the player again at the Trainer's School. In Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon, players can challenge Ilima at Hau'oli Cemetery for an Orange Petal during Mina's trial. Post-game, he gifts the player a Normalium Z to place in Verdant Cavern, triggering a rematch with the Totem Pokémon.
His mother mentions that Ilima studied in the Kalos region.
In the Anime:
Ilima debuted in episode SM065. Previously, Tupp, who would join Team Skull, grew envious of Ilima's popularity among girls. After graduating from Pokémon School with numerous records, earning him the title "Pokémon School Prince," Ilima studied abroad in Kalos and participated in the Kalos League. Upon returning, he defeated Kagetora, earning the Eevium Z, and reconnected with Professor Kukui and Samson Oak, meeting Ash and Lillie. During a swim, Ilima showcased his Z-Ring and Eevium Z, expressing his desire to strengthen Eevee without evolving it. Challenged by Ash, they were interrupted by Team Skull led by Tupp, whom Ilima and Eevee defeated.
In SM066, Ilima taught Ash and friends Poké Ping Pong before competing in a tournament himself, ultimately winning against Ikari. That evening, he departed for Kalos.
In the Manga:
Ilima is introduced in the Sun & Moon chapter, initially mentioned by Mallow regarding a potential raid on Team Skull’s base. Appearing at the Trainer's School on Meleme Island, he agreed to assist Mallow and others against Team Skull. Afterward, Hau requested to join them in confronting Team Skull at Po Town. Revealing one of Team Skull members was once Hala's student, Hau believed sharing malasadas could foster unity. Arriving at Po Town, Ilima and Hau met Lana, Kiawe, Mallow, and Acerola but were soon attacked by Team Skull Grunts and three Ultra Beasts.
