The beloved basketball manga SLAM DUNK, created by Takehiko Inoue, is now officially available in digital format for the first time. As of June 2, 2025, all 20 volumes have been released across major eBook platforms, marking a long-awaited milestone for fans of the iconic series.

The surprise announcement came on May 22 via Inoue's official X (formerly Twitter) account. In his post, he shared, “Starting June 2, SLAM DUNK will be available in digital format.” He added an insightful behind-the-scenes detail about his original manuscripts: “I drew the pages on B4 Kent paper, and for two-page spreads, I used B3 paper laid horizontally. Since the series was serialized when only print books existed, I composed my panel layouts in two-page units. Reading on a larger tablet in landscape mode might offer the closest experience to the original and could even be easier to read.”

Inoue also noted another unique benefit of the digital release: “You’ll now be able to clearly view the inner margins—those hard-to-see areas near the binding—which is a nice improvement.”

About SLAM DUNK

Originally serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from issue 42 of 1990 to issue 27 of 1996, SLAM DUNK follows the story of Hanamichi Sakuragi, a high school delinquent who joins Shohoku High’s basketball team as a complete novice. As he clashes with teammate Kaede Rukawa and faces off against elite rival schools, Sakuragi rapidly develops his skills and passion for the sport.

Known for its intense game sequences and emotionally resonant depictions of youth dedicating themselves to basketball, the series has earned tremendous acclaim. It has sold over 120 million copies in Japan alone and remains a cultural touchstone.

An anime adaptation aired from 1993 to 1996 with 101 episodes, and in 2022, the franchise was revived with the animated feature film THE FIRST SLAM DUNK, which became a major box-office success with 16.4 billion yen in revenue.

Frequently Asked Questions About the SLAM DUNK Digital Release

When did the SLAM DUNK digital version become available?
The digital version was released on June 2, 2025, across major eBook platforms.

How many volumes are included in the digital release?
All 20 volumes of the SLAM DUNK manga series are included in this first-ever digital release.

What did creator Takehiko Inoue say about the digital release?
Inoue shared that reading the manga on a large tablet in landscape mode may offer the closest experience to the original manuscripts, especially for two-page spreads. He also highlighted the advantage of clearer viewing of inner margins.

Has Takehiko Inoue released other works digitally?
Yes, his manga REAL was released in digital format in 2019. However, most of his works have remained unavailable in eBook form until now.

What is the story of SLAM DUNK?
SLAM DUNK follows Hanamichi Sakuragi, a rebellious teenager who joins his high school basketball team and grows into a formidable player. The story captures his development, rivalries, and the intensity of high school basketball in Japan.

How successful is SLAM DUNK?
The manga has sold over 120 million copies in Japan. The anime aired from 1993 to 1996, and the 2022 film THE FIRST SLAM DUNK grossed 16.4 billion yen.

Source : ORICON NEWS