In a move that has sent ripples through the NBA, Joel Embiid has committed to the Philadelphia 76ers, signing a three-year max contract extension valued at $193 million. This extension will keep the towering center in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season and includes a player option for the final year, underscoring Embiid's long-term dedication to the franchise.
Embiid, who will be 35 years old at the conclusion of this contract, has expressed his deep-rooted connection to the city of Philadelphia. "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," he stated. "There is a lot more work to do. You guys deserve a championship and I think we're just getting started!" His sentiment reflects a love for a city that has embraced him since he was drafted as a 20-year-old from Cameroon.
The financials of the new extension are staggering. Embiid turned down a lucrative $59 million player option for the 2026-27 season only to agree to terms that will see him make an estimated $59.3 million that same year. As his contract progresses, his salary will increase to an estimated $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season. Should Embiid opt in for the 2028-29 season, he will earn approximately $69.1 million. Over the next five years, Embiid's estimated earnings amount to $299.5 million, and if he picks up his player option, his total career earnings will surpass $500 million.
The commitment to Embiid is not just financial but symbolic. "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," said Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris. "We're ecstatic that this extension keeps him and his family in Philadelphia for years to come." Harris further praised Embiid's value to the team, noting, "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."
Last season, Embiid showcased his exceptional skills by averaging 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game with a usage rate of 38.7%. His individual accolades include seven All-Star appearances, five All-NBA team selections, and three All-Defensive selections. Additionally, Embiid recently added an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in Paris to his resume, further solidifying his place among basketball's elite.
The 76ers have shown unwavering support for Embiid, not only securing his future but also bolstering the team's roster. This offseason, they signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and Tyrese Maxey to a five-year max contract. The organization is committed to winning, having added notable players such as Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Returning players Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry, along with a re-signed K.J. Martin, who is expected to be a strategic trade asset, round out a robust roster. The financial commitment to Embiid, George, and Maxey totals approximately $715 million in future salaries.
Despite a track record of regular-season success — only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games since the 2017-18 season — the 76ers have been unable to advance past the second round of the playoffs in recent years. Embiid's renewed commitment signals a determination to change that narrative. "I started a Sixer and want to be right here for the rest of my career," Embiid said. "I had no idea when I was drafted as a 20-year-old kid from Cameroon how lucky I was to be in Philadelphia."
With a refreshed roster and Embiid's leadership, the Philadelphia 76ers are poised to embark on a new chapter in pursuit of an NBA championship. Embiid's loyalty and performance promise continued excitement for fans and a hopeful future for the franchise. As Embiid put it, "Philadelphia is home and it's time to bring this community an NBA championship."