The coach of the Shohoku High basketball team is considered one of the finest in Japan, earning the respectful title of "Anzai-sensei" from peers. His current calm demeanor contrasts with his past nickname, "White-Haired Devil," earned for his demanding coaching style at the university level.
Ryuji Yazawa, a talented player under Anzai's tutelage, was highly regarded by him. However, frustrated by Anzai's rigorous training methods, Yazawa left Japan to pursue opportunities in the USA. Five years later, news reached Anzai that Yazawa had died in a car accident under the influence of drugs. A letter from Yazawa, given by his mother, revealed his regret over leaving and his struggles in America. This loss profoundly affected Anzai, leading him to resign from college coaching and adopt a more gentle approach, earning him the new nickname "White-Haired Buddha."
At Shohoku, Sakuragi affectionately calls Anzai "Oyaji" (old man) and often jiggles his fat when excited, much to the dismay of Mitsui and others. Despite this perceived disrespect, Anzai tolerates it. He did, however, bench Sakuragi, Mitsui, Miyagi, and Rukawa after they were involved in a fight.
Beneath his serene exterior lies a brilliant strategist who knows how to turn the tide of a game. Recognizing Sakuragi's potential early on, Anzai made him a starter despite some skill deficiencies. To improve Sakuragi's shooting, he tasked him with making 20,000 baskets in a week. Anzai's charisma inspires his players to excel, as seen before their match against Sannoh, where he helped alleviate the insecurities of Miyagi, Mitsui, and Sakuragi.
Anzai's presence at Shohoku was a significant factor for Mitsui and Ryota choosing to stay, even when offered recruitment by Coach Moichi Taoka of Ryonan. Mitsui holds Anzai in such high regard that he once prayed to a picture of him during an important match when Anzai couldn't attend due to a heart attack.
