Joel Embiid Commits to 76ers with Three-Year Max Extension
Philadelphia 76ers' center Joel Embiid has reaffirmed his loyalty to the franchise by signing a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million. This deal guarantees Embiid's presence in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season, ensuring the team's most prominent star remains at the heart of their roster for years to come.
The extension, which includes a player option for the final year, will see Embiid earning substantial amounts throughout its duration. He turned down a player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season, only to secure an estimated $59.3 million under the new contract for that same period. The figures escalate further, with Embiid set to make an estimated $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season, and if he exercises his player option for 2028-29, he will earn approximately $69.1 million.
By the end of his contract, Joel Embiid, who will be 35 years old, could see his total career earnings surpassing the $500 million mark, solidifying his financial legacy in the NBA. In a statement reflecting his commitment to Philadelphia and its fans, Embiid expressed his gratitude and ambition for the franchise. "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!"
Embiid's Exceptional Performance
Joel Embiid's performance last season was nothing short of spectacular, with an average of 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. His usage rate of 38.7% further underscored his central role in the team’s dynamics. Over his career, Embiid has earned seven All-Star selections, five All-NBA team selections, and three All-Defensive Team honors. His recent success also includes winning a gold medal with Team USA at the Olympics in Paris. "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," Embiid remarked, reflecting on his journey with the 76ers.
76ers' Ambitious Offseason Moves
The 76ers have been busy in the offseason, making significant moves to bolster their roster. The addition of All-Star Paul George on a four-year max deal and the re-signing of Tyrese Maxey to a five-year max deal illustrate the franchise's commitment to building a championship-contending team. The total future salaries committed to Embiid, George, and Maxey amount to approximately $715 million.
In addition to these marquee signings, the 76ers have reinforced their squad by adding Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. They also brought back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry, and re-signed K.J. Martin to a contract structured to be a valuable trade asset near the deadline.
Despite their impressive regular-season records, the 76ers have struggled to advance past the second round of the playoffs in recent seasons. However, the front office remains optimistic about the future. Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris lauded Embiid's impact on the franchise: "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."
Looking Ahead
Since the 2017-18 campaign, only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games than the 76ers. Despite not advancing beyond the second round of the playoffs, the team's recent moves signal a renewed drive to overcome these hurdles. The combination of Embiid's stellar play, strategic offseason acquisitions, and a clear commitment to long-term success sets the stage for an exciting era in Philadelphia basketball. "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," added Harris.
Embiid himself remains focused on bringing a championship to Philadelphia. Reflecting on his journey from Cameroon to becoming a franchise cornerstone, he said, "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. 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."
As the new NBA season approaches, the eyes of the basketball world will be on Philadelphia to see if their significant investments and roster changes will reap the ultimate reward: an NBA championship.