Joel Embiid Secures Future with Philadelphia 76ers Through $193 Million Contract Extension
Joel Embiid has solidified his future with the Philadelphia 76ers, signing a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million. The deal ensures that the star center will remain in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season, potentially finishing his career with the team that drafted him as a 20-year-old from Cameroon.
"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 expressed with heartfelt commitment.
The new contract includes a player option for the final year, allowing Embiid some flexibility towards the end of his tenure in Philadelphia. Under this lucrative extension, Embiid will earn an estimated $59.3 million for the 2026-27 season, a slight increase from the $59 million player option he turned down for that same year. His salary will escalate to approximately $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season, with the player option for 2028-29 valued at $69.1 million.
By opting into the final year of his contract, Embiid's total career earnings will surpass $500 million, marking a historic financial milestone. Over the next five years alone, he is set to earn an estimated $299.5 million.
The extension comes on the heels of a standout season where Embiid averaged 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. His dominance on the court was highlighted by a usage rate of 38.7%, demonstrating his integral role in the team's performance.
Accomplished and Decorated Career
Embiid's career with the 76ers has been nothing short of illustrious. He has participated in seven All-Star Games, been selected for five All-NBA teams, and earned three All-Defensive Team selections. His influence extends beyond the NBA, recently adding a gold medal with Team USA at the Olympics in Paris to his list of accolades.
The 76ers' Managing Partner Josh Harris shared his enthusiasm and pride for the continued partnership with Embiid: "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 continued, "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."
76ers' Offseason Moves
The 76ers have been busy this offseason, bolstering their roster to support their championship aspirations. Paul George signed a four-year max deal, adding an experienced and dynamic presence. Tyrese Maxey was rewarded with a five-year max contract, ensuring that the team's young talent remains a core part of their future. In total, the 76ers have committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey.
The team further strengthened its lineup by adding Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. They have also brought back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry, while re-signing K.J. Martin to a trade-friendly contract. This comprehensive approach has Philadelphia prepared to tackle the upcoming season with renewed vigor and depth.
Challenges and Aspirations
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 challenges in the playoffs. The team has not advanced past the second round in recent seasons, a hurdle they are eager to overcome.
Embiid remains optimistic and motivated as he looks forward to the future with the 76ers. "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," he reflected. "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 the new contract in place and an invigorated roster, hopes are high 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," Embiid proclaimed.