After defeating the Mountain King, Haruko's admiration and concern for Sakuragi deepened. Sakuragi's back injury made her extremely worried, but it also allowed her to see Sakuragi's tenacity and purity that went far beyond basketball. During Sakuragi's recovery, Haruko became one of his most important spiritual pillars, often visiting, encouraging, and even helping him with his homework (Sakura must work hard in order to successfully graduate and continue playing). The relationship between the two gradually evolved from unrequited love to a two-way, ignorant but sincere bond.
