10 Best Underrated Naruto Friendships Deserving More Praise, Ranked

In its more than 700 episodes, the anime Naruto introduced numerous characters, yet not all left an indelible mark due to their power or personality; some simply resonated with fans because of the profound connections they formed with others. Interestingly, when discussions about the most memorable friendships in Naruto arise, it’s usually the significant ones that take center stage, such as Naruto and Sasuke, Kakashi and Obito, among others. Indeed, these relationships played a crucial role in shaping the narrative, but there are countless other friendships within the shinobi world that deserve equal recognition.

In the world of Naruto, numerous relationships significantly contribute to the narrative’s progression. However, many heartfelt connections between characters often take a backseat, eclipsed by the primary characters and their captivating storylines. Nonetheless, these bonds have given us some of the most poignant moments in the series. So, let’s dive into ten underappreciated friendships in Naruto that truly deserve more recognition.

10) Deidara and Tobi

In the Akatsuki group, Deidara and Tobi formed an unusual yet effective partnership. Tobi was always praising Deidara’s explosive skills and addressed him as ‘senpai’, while Deidara, though occasionally irritated, seemed to relish having someone who truly valued his abilities. Despite their odd dynamic, they proved to be a lethal duo on the battlefield. They combined their combat styles flawlessly to capture the three-tailed beast, Isobu.

In a shocking revelation, I discovered that my friend, whom I thought to be Tobi, was none other than Obito Uchiha, masterfully orchestrating a grand deception to manipulate everyone around him! The playful camaraderie between us, which seemed so genuine at the time, now appears to have been nothing more than an act. However, even in his deceit, Obito showed respect for Deidara upon his death, hinting that beneath the layers of deception, there existed a genuine appreciation. The thought of what would have transpired had Deidara discovered my true identity as the legendary Madara Uchiha is truly mind-boggling!

9) Hinata and Kiba

The relationship between Kiba and Hinata serves as an ideal illustration of a familiar, almost sibling-like connection. At first, Hinata felt disheartened about not being part of Naruto’s team, but she soon found a priceless friendship with Kiba – a bond where she no longer had to feel timid or stumble over her words. In contrast to her awkward encounters with her crush, Hinata could truly be herself in the presence of the Inuzuka.

In many fans’ opinions, these two characters share a bond reminiscent of an older sister and younger brother relationship. They genuinely care for each other, but they also aren’t shy about playfully teasing one another. Small instances like Hinata caring for Kiba after his battle with Naruto or Kiba fretting over Hinata’s health during the Chūnin Exams demonstrate their affection. This friendship stands out as an example of strong bonds that thrive best when there’s no need for pretense; they simply coexist comfortably.

8) Suigetsu and Sasuke

Despite Sasuke being difficult to connect with due to his intense focus on revenge, he unexpectedly forged a genuine friendship with Suigetsu. This bond began when, after defeating and betraying Orochimaru, Sasuke formed a new team. While exploring one of Orochimaru’s laboratories filled with experiments, he found Suigetsu trapped inside a containment tube and liberated him.

To round out his team, Sasuke subsequently enlisted Karin and Jūgo from various Otogakure outposts. At first, Suigetsu appeared to find his teammates irritating, but over time he developed feelings for them, particularly Sasuke, and was prepared to sacrifice himself to safeguard them against the Eight-Tailed Beast. In summary, Suigetsu provided a dose of humor and remained loyal to Sasuke in good times and bad.

7) Kiba and Shino

The friendship between Kiba and Shino serves as a testament to the strength that can be forged between individuals who initially seem mismatched. During their days at the academy, Shino found it challenging to share a team with Kiba due to their contrasting personalities. Kiba’s quick temper and impulsive decisions frequently conflicted with Shino’s level-headedness and strategic mindset. In the heat of battle, Kiba was prone to making errors as his emotions took over.

Although they often disagreed, Kiba ultimately admired Shino’s combat skills and their bond deepened over the years. Shino, in return, considered Kiba to be his dearest friend and most reliable ally. In fact, Shino even displayed a playful side around Kiba, frequently jesting with him about his potential to become Hokage. This friendship stands as an example of how strong relationships can develop based on mutual respect, even when there’s a lot of arguing involved.

6) Rock Lee and Neji

Upon initial observation, Lee and Neji’s relationship may appear distant, but hidden beneath their formal exchanges was a deep-rooted respect that propelled each to strive for greater strength. Lee frequently tested Neji not out of arrogance, but because he admired him deeply and sought to demonstrate his own worth. This unique dynamic fostered a friendship characterized by both competition and reverence, making it one of the underestimated friendships within the world of Naruto.

Gradually, Neji grew more tolerant of Lee’s boisterous demeanor. A person he once regarded as inferior, he came to appreciate Lee’s might. The intensity of Lee’s sorrow upon Neji’s death during the Fourth Shinobi War underscored the depth of their friendship.

5) Itachi and Kisame

Their initial bond in Akatsuki might have started with animosity, but it morphed into one of the most heartfelt friendships. At first glance, they appeared to be polar opposites; Itachi was composed and strategic, whereas Kisame exhibited a cruel and violent nature. However, what made their relationship function was Kisame’s unexpected self-understanding about his weaknesses and his unwavering trust in Itachi’s intelligence and skills, frequently admitting that Itachi was the stronger and wiser of the two on multiple occasions.

Beyond merely being partners, Kisame held a deep friendship for Itachi. Their relationship was unique in that they harbored a silent trust, despite their training to deceive and kill. They didn’t openly express their feelings because they knew their situations might lead them to become adversaries, but they still fought together and watched each other’s back. In his last moments, Kisame pondered Itachi’s words about self-discovery just before death, demonstrating the profound impact Itachi had on him.

4) Naruto and Shikamaru

Initially, Naruto faced rejection from most people in Konoha, but Shikamaru bucked the trend and treated him as an ordinary child. Although others eventually warmed up to him later on, Shikamaru was a constant friend since the beginning. As the narrative unfolds, Shikamaru emerges as one of Naruto’s strongest advocates, remaining loyal even when some of his closest friends began to harbor doubts about Naruto.

I was there, standing beside Naruto during those disheartening missions aimed at retrieving Sasuke. Even as others, like Sakura, started to falter in their faith, Naruto remained steadfast. And after the demise of Jiraiya left Naruto devastated, it was Shikamaru who empathized with his sorrow and aided him in finding the resilience to carry on. Fast forward through the years, when Naruto ultimately realized his dream as Hokage, he appointed Shikamaru as his trusted confidant, solidifying their connection.

3) Nagato and Konan

Together with Yahiko, these two children who had lost their families found solace during the most challenging times of their lives. Nagato’s parents fell victim to a Konoha shinobi, while Yahiko was forced to steal for survival. They crossed paths with Konan when they were at their lowest ebb. Their friendship was born out of shared suffering, and it became the one source of hope that sustained them.

In my observation, I found Konan to be incredibly faithful to her companions, standing steadfastly by Nagato’s side. Even after he underwent a dramatic change into Pain, she continued to stand by him unwaveringly. She possessed a keen understanding of the pain that fueled his actions and chose not to forsake him, even when his pursuit of peace took a dark turn.

2) Shikamaru and Choji

The bond between Choji and Shikamaru demonstrates how finding a loyal companion early in life can be beneficial. It was Shikamaru who defended Choji when other children bullied him due to his size, intelligence, and eating habits. Unlike many students at the academy who judged Choji based on his appearance or eating habits, Shikamaru recognized the good-natured person within him.

In the Sasuke Recovery Mission (Sasuke’s Recovery Arc), Shikamaru firmly believed that Choji should be part of his initial command. To this day, even as grown adults and married couples, they continue to rely on each other, much like they did back then. Just as his father had predicted, Choji eventually discovered a true friend who wholeheartedly accepted him without reservation.

1) Naruto and Gaara

In their childhoods, Naruto and Gaara experienced isolation and rejection – Naruto due to being the container for the Nine-Tails, while Gaara bore the burden of the One-Tail. Unlike Naruto who continually sought companionship, Gaara retreated following his father’s attempt on his life and his caretaker Yashamaru’s betrayal. Their encounter during the Chūnin Exams was like gazing at reflections of shared pain.

Naruto’s compassion towards Gaara stemmed from shared past experiences, fostering an unusual connection that few could grasp. As a result of his encounters with Naruto, Gaara came to appreciate the significance of affection and camaraderie, eventually maturing into a just ruler of his village as the Kazekage, and a genuine guardian for its people. Had it not been for Naruto’s impact, Gaara may have followed Sasuke’s destructive path, but their friendship provided him with a compelling reason to alter his course.

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2025-07-24 06:10