If you’re looking for a shoujo manga that blends comedy with slow-burn romance, and a pinch of sports drama, Cheeky Brat by Mitsubachi Miyuki is a slamdunk!

The story follows Yuki Machida, a responsible and somewhat guarded high school girl who manages her school’s basketball team. Sho Naruse, a cheeky, persistent basketball player, immediately sets his sights on her. What follows is a sweet, funny, and sometimes heart-tugging game of emotional “offense and defense” as Naruse slowly chips away at Yuki’s guarded walls and they both begin to experience love for the first time. Let’s dive into some note worthy aspects that I found particularly amazing about this series.

First, the basketball setting isn’t just for decoration: The games and practices play a real part in the Sho’s and the other side characters’ growth. I really enjoyed Sho’s growth throughout the entire series. Always striving and working towards getting better but at a rate that is realistic.

Their love is realistic: Naruse’s charm lies in his mix of confident playfulness and genuine devotion, while Yuki’s journey from skepticism to trust feels relatable and endearing. The art is clean and expressive, perfectly delivering comedic beats one moment and heart-fluttering tension the next.

What makes Cheeky Brat stand out, is its balance: it’s romantic without being saccharine, funny without losing sincerity, and sports-oriented without alienating non-sports fans. Whether you’re here for the basketball hustle or the “cheeky” banter, you’ll find yourself rooting for this unconventional pair until the final buzzer.

Final Score: ★★★★☆ MAM Approved! A slam dunk for shoujo fans who love a mix of romance, humor, and sports

For those that have read this cute series, what is your take? Do you think it’s worth a read?

And as always, see you later otakus!