What is IIT Madras' Phiball? Meet the new sport with 3 teams and 3 baskets

IIT Madras has launched Phiball, a new three-team sport played on a circular court with three baskets. The game combines speed, strategy and teamwork, featuring rotating defensive baskets and a three-tier scoring system.Three teams, three baskets: IIT Madras launches a new sport called Phiball (Image courtesy: @iitmadras/X)The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has launched Phiball, a new competitive team sport designed to bring a different dimension to traditional team-based games.The sport features three teams playing simultaneously on a circular court with three baskets. It combines speed, strategy, communication and quick decision-making, requiring players to continuously adapt to changing situations on the court. IIT Madras's tweet about Phiball. HOW PHIBALL IS PLAYEDEach team consists of seven players. The game is played across three eight-minute quarters, with each team attacking two baskets while defending one.The defensive basket rotates after every quarter, adding another tactical element to the game. Players must therefore constantly adjust their strategies depending on which basket they are required to defend. The circular court and three-team format are designed to keep the game dynamic, with players required to remain alert throughout the match.HOW SCORING WORKSPhiball uses a three-tier scoring system based on the location of the shot, as per NDTV. A successful free throw earns one point, while a field goal scored inside the 6.75-metre arc is worth two points. A field goal beyond the 6.75-metre arc earns three points.Shooting is not allowed from the Centre Free Zone, encouraging players to focus on movement, passing and tactical positioning rather than relying solely on shooting.IIT MADRAS EXPANDS INNOVATION INTO SPORTSIIT Madras launched Phiball ahead of National Sports Day, extending its focus on innovation into the sporting arena.With its three-team structure, rotating defensive responsibilities and strategic scoring system, the institute aims to offer a fresh approach to competitive team play.The new sport brings together athletic ability and tactical thinking, requiring players to communicate effectively and make quick decisions as the game develops.- EndsPublished By: Karan YadavPublished On: Aug 30, 2026 15:16 IST