Ken Sudō is known for his lack of effort in academics, earning him a reputation as one of the “Three Idiots of Class D” alongside two other struggling classmates. He often sleeps during class and has shown little interest in improving his grades, even refusing to join Suzune Horikita’s study group despite his risk of falling behind. However, over time, he has demonstrated gradual improvement in his studies, especially when motivated by personal goals and relationships.

Sudō has a hotheaded and impulsive personality, making him quick to anger when he perceives something as pointless or insulting. He is easily provoked, often lashing out without thinking, and tends to reject help from others, interpreting their assistance as an underestimation of his abilities. Despite his aggressive nature, he is not immune to fear, as seen in his confrontation with Kakeru Ryūen, where he backed down upon realizing he was outmatched.

A passionate and skilled basketball player, Sudō aspires to become a professional athlete. His commitment to the sport is evident in his reaction when Suzune Horikita warned that he might lose his ability to play if he were expelled, showing how deeply he values his future in basketball. His determination to stay in school and improve his academic standing stems largely from his ambition to continue playing competitively.

Sudō has also developed romantic feelings for Suzune, as hinted during the cruise in Episode 8 when he eagerly asked Kiyotaka Ayanokōji for her first name. Upon learning it, he blushed and repeatedly said her name, revealing his growing affection for her despite their initially hostile interactions. His feelings for Suzune have served as a motivating factor, leading him to work harder in his studies. His remarkable academic improvement shocked both his classmates and teachers, proving that, when motivated, Sudō is capable of growth and perseverance.

Ken Sudō has a tall and muscular build, standing at 183 cm, which, combined with his sturdy physique, gives him the appearance of a capable and imposing athlete. His most distinctive feature is his dyed red hair, which, along with his unconventional and unkempt hairstyle, contributes to his rebellious and aggressive image. His intimidating presence often makes it difficult for others to approach him, reinforcing his reputation as a hot-tempered individual.

His clothing style reflects his wild and defiant personality, as he frequently leaves the top buttons of his uniform undone, giving him a more relaxed and unrestrained look. This casual and somewhat rebellious attire further highlights his bold and confrontational nature, making him stand out among his classmates.

Ken Sudō had a troubled upbringing, shaped by family struggles and personal setbacks. His mother, who worked in the entertainment industry, abandoned him, leaving him in the care of his father, who lived a somber and difficult life as a janitor. With little parental guidance or academic motivation, Ken gave up on his studies and instead decided to pursue a career in sports.

His first encounter with basketball became a turning point in his life. Although he initially disliked team-based activities, he gradually found himself excelling in the sport. His natural talent and dedication led to rapid improvement, and he eventually earned a recommendation to a prestigious high school with one of the best basketball programs in the country. However, due to his involvement in violent altercations, his application was rejected, crushing his hopes of joining an elite basketball team.

Following this setback, Ken chose to enroll at Advanced Nurturing High School, attracted by its free education system and the promise of a secured future. Despite his rough past, he viewed the school as an opportunity to turn his life around, hoping to use his athletic abilities to create a better path for himself.

Academic Abilities
Ken Sudō has historically struggled with academics, ranking among the lowest-scoring students in Advanced Nurturing High School’s history. According to the school database, his entrance exam results were the worst on record for his school year, making him the first student considered for expulsion. His poor academic performance placed him at constant risk of being removed from the school, and he was only saved through the intervention of his classmates, who used strategic means to keep him enrolled.

Despite his initial struggles, Ken has shown significant improvement through persistent effort and guidance from others, particularly Suzune Horikita. His grades have steadily risen, proving that while he lacks natural academic talent, he can improve when motivated.

Physical Abilities
Ken is one of the most athletically gifted students in Advanced Nurturing High School, particularly excelling in basketball. His athletic prowess was already recognized in junior high, where he was evaluated at a level comparable to exceptionally skilled high school athletes. His speed, agility, and endurance make him a dominant force on the court, and his physical strength allows him to hold his own in physical confrontations.

Due to his highly competitive nature and impressive physical skills, the school holds great expectations for his future in sports. His abilities are also highly regarded by other class leaders, who frequently take his strength and influence into account when strategizing against Class D. Many acknowledge that if Class D fails to properly integrate his talents into their plans, he could be a decisive factor in securing victories for Horikita.

The name Ken (健) consists of the kanji 健 (ken), which means “healthy” or “strong,” reflecting his athleticism, resilience, and physical prowess as one of the most skilled sports players at Advanced Nurturing High School.

His surname, Sudō (須藤), is composed of the kanji 須 (su), meaning “ought,” “by all means,” or “necessarily,” and 藤 (tō/dō), which translates to “wisteria,” a plant often associated with perseverance and endurance. This combination could symbolize his determination, aggressive nature, and his ability to push through hardships despite his struggles with academics and temper.