Joel Embiid Commits to Philadelphia with Max Contract Extension
Joel Embiid, the Philadelphia 76ers' cornerstone and one of the NBA's most dominant players, has secured his future with the franchise by signing a three-year max contract extension valued at $193 million. This lucrative deal ensures that Embiid will remain with the 76ers through the 2028-29 season, by which time he will be 35 years old.
A Loyal Anchor
Embiid, originally drafted by the 76ers at the age of 20 from Cameroon, has become a beloved figure in Philadelphia. "Philadelphia is home. I want to be here for the rest of my career," Embiid expressed. He added, "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!"
This extension features a player option for the final year, giving Embiid the flexibility to control his career path as he nears its twilight. Notably, the star center turned down a $59 million player option for the 2026-27 season in favor of this new agreement, under which he is set to earn an estimated $59.3 million that same year. His salary will then escalate to an estimated $64.3 million for the 2027-28 season, with the player option for 2028-29 valued at approximately $69.1 million.
If Embiid exercises his player option, his total career earnings will surpass the half-billion-dollar mark, cementing his financial security while continuing to anchor the 76ers' pursuit of an NBA championship. His estimated earnings over the next five years alone amount to an impressive $299.5 million.
Statistical Dominance
On the court, Embiid has proven his worth time and time again. Last season, he averaged an astonishing 34.7 points, alongside 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game, showcasing his multi-faceted prowess and solidifying his reputation as a premier two-way player. His usage rate of 38.7% further underscores his centrality to Philadelphia's offensive scheme.
Throughout his career, Embiid has participated in seven All-Star Games, been selected for five All-NBA teams, and three All-Defensive Teams. His accolades now include a gold medal with Team USA at the recent Olympics in Paris, adding another feather to his already illustrious cap.
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris remarked, "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."
Harris added, "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 a Championship Contender
This offseason, the 76ers have bolstered their roster significantly. Philadelphia made waves by signing Paul George to a four-year max deal and securing Tyrese Maxey with a five-year max contract. These moves signal the organization's commitment to contending for a championship, having committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey.
Additionally, the 76ers have added key role players like Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. The team has also brought back veterans Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry, while re-signing K.J. Martin to a contract designed to potentially be a trade asset by the deadline.
Despite their regular-season success—only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games than the 76ers since the 2017-18 season—Philadelphia has struggled to advance past the second round of the playoffs in recent years. Embiid recognises the special connection he has with the fans and the city, stating, "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." He added, "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."
As the Sixers gear up for another season, the sense of optimism is palpable. Embiid's commitment, combined with a strengthened roster, has reignited hopes for a deep playoff run, and possibly, the long-awaited 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 promised.