In a monumental move that cements his legacy within the franchise, Joel Embiid has signed a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million with the Philadelphia 76ers. This extension ensures that Embiid will remain in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season, keeping one of the NBA's most dominant players in the city where he has truly made his mark.
The extension represents a significant commitment from both Embiid and the 76ers. The deal features a player option for the final year, valued at approximately $69.1 million, giving Embiid some flexibility toward the end of the contract. Turning down a player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season, Embiid instead opted for this new arrangement, which will pay him an estimated $59.3 million for that same season and escalate to $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season.
By the end of this contract, Joel Embiid will be 35 years old. Should he choose to pick up his player option, his total career earnings will surpass the $500 million mark, an extraordinary figure that reflects his status as one of the league's premier talents. Over the next five years alone, Embiid's estimated earnings amount to a staggering $299.5 million.
Last season, Embiid demonstrated why he is worth every penny, averaging 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. His usage rate of 38.7% underscores just how pivotal he is to the 76ers' offensive and defensive schemes. His accolades include seven All-Star appearances, five All-NBA team selections, and three All-Defensive team selections. Additionally, Embiid recently added an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in Paris to his impressive resume.
Reflecting on his ongoing journey, Embiid stated, "Philadelphia is home. I want to be here for the rest of my career. I love this community and everything you've given me and my family. There is a lot more work to do. You guys deserve a championship, and I think we're just getting started!"
The 76ers' front office echoed these sentiments. "Joel has cemented himself as one of the greatest Sixers of all time and is well on his way to being one of the best players to ever play the game. We're ecstatic that this extension keeps him and his family in Philadelphia for years to come," said Managing Partner Josh Harris. Harris further lauded Embiid's character and on-court abilities: "Joel is a great family man, leader, and person. He is an elite two-way player with a combination of size, strength, and athleticism that this league has rarely – if ever – seen. He is integral to this franchise's quest for another NBA Championship, and we are honored that he continues to choose this organization as his NBA home."
Building Around a Superstar
In addition to cementing Embiid's future, the 76ers have made significant moves to strengthen their roster. The team signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and secured Tyrese Maxey with a five-year max contract, bringing their total commitment in future salaries to approximately $715 million for the trio of Embiid, George, and Maxey.
The roster now also features new additions like Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. The 76ers have brought back veterans Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry and re-signed K.J. Martin to a contract designed to be a trade asset as the deadline approaches.
Despite their regular season success, where only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games since the 2017-18 campaign, the 76ers have faced difficulties in advancing past the second round of the playoffs. However, with this renewed focus and an upgraded roster, the team looks poised to change that narrative.
Embiid's Emotional Connection
Since being drafted by the 76ers as a 20-year-old from Cameroon, Embiid has forged an indelible connection with the city of Philadelphia. "I started a Sixer and want to be right here for the rest of my career. I had no idea when I was drafted as a 20-year-old kid from Cameroon how lucky I was to be in Philadelphia," Embiid remarked. His gratitude for the support he has received is palpable: "Through all the ups and downs, this city and the fans have been everything, and I am so grateful for how they've embraced me."
With this extension, Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers have set their sights on delivering what the fans have long craved: an NBA championship. "I want to thank Josh, David [Blitzer], and the entire organization. Philadelphia is home and it's time to bring this community an NBA championship," Embiid asserted.
As the 76ers prepare for the upcoming season, the stakes are higher than ever. The franchise's commitment to winning is clear, and with Embiid leading the charge, Philadelphia's championship aspirations seem closer to reality.