This is alot harder than I expected, I have so many personal favorites
Ryoga - Loved his character + backstory, can't wait to see him shine and I'm personally hoping he's the best player in the tourney/world atm and going to become the main rival after the World Cup
Zaizen - I really liked his look, and when i first watched the series I always thought he was going to be a "star" player. Thinking back I swear they had alluded to this.
Byodoin - Has one of, if not the best move sets in the series. LOVE Pirates of the World!!
Sanada - Eye patch and black jersey OOOOH BBABY, Only wish black aura was as hype as I hoped when it was first teased.
Yukimura - I like OP characters, and boy did they do it right with Yukimura initially, hoping for his surgery to happen and gain more moves beyond Y-I-P-S. Something flashy is needed.
Rhinehart - I can't wait to see how he plays, I'm hoping he's no pushover and shocks us all!. Love his look and style PLUS DAT CADDY baby HYPE
Ochi - The doubles match entirely changed my opinion on him, I'd say he's better than where he ranks (top 5). His hair is life!
Shiraishi - Waiting for his OP power up, Zeus match left me with bad taste but it is too soon for a bunch of the middle schoolers to be HS level
Atobe - Some of the best named moves in the series imo, love the ice theme.
Krauser - MAN WAS I HYPED WHEN I SAW THE CRUCIFIXION, really wish his character was expanded more since he chose to stay in japan