Joel Embiid Secures Future with 76ers in Massive Extension
Philadelphia's unwavering support for Joel Embiid has been reciprocated once again, as the star center has inked a three-year max contract extension worth a staggering $193 million. This lucrative deal ensures Embiid's presence on the 76ers roster through the 2028-29 season, by which time the dominant big man will be 35 years old.
A Commitment to Philadelphia
Embiid's latest extension is a clear testament to his loyalty to the city and 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," Embiid remarked, showing gratitude towards the Philadelphia fans. "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."
This extension includes a player option for the final year, which is valued at approximately $69.1 million. Interestingly, Embiid turned down a player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season to negotiate this new deal, under which he will now earn an estimated $59.3 million for that same season. His salary will escalate to around $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season, further ensuring his place among the highest earners in the league.
By picking up his player option in 2028-29, Embiid is poised to surpass $500 million in total career earnings, a milestone only reached by the most elite of NBA players. Over the next five years, he is expected to earn an impressive $299.5 million.
Consistent Excellence on the Court
Last season, Embiid's exceptional performance was nothing short of MVP caliber, as he averaged 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game, while boasting a usage rate of 38.7%. His dominant displays have earned him acknowledgment as one of the premier players in the league, with seven All-Star Game selections, five All-NBA team selections, and three All-Defensive team honors to his name. Furthermore, his recent triumph with Team USA at the Olympics in Paris, where he secured a gold medal, underscores his global impact on the sport.
Building a Championship Team
The 76ers have shown their commitment to surrounding Embiid with a winning cast. This offseason, the franchise made significant moves by signing Paul George to a four-year max deal and securing Tyrese Maxey with a five-year max contract. These contracts, along with Embiid's extension, amount to approximately $715 million committed to the team's salary cap.
In addition to the max deals, the 76ers have made strategic roster additions, including Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. The franchise has also retained key players by bringing back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry, and re-signing K.J. Martin to a contract intended as a trade asset near the deadline.
Despite their efforts, the 76ers have faced playoff disappointment, failing to advance past the second round in recent seasons. However, the team's regular-season performance has been commendable, with only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets winning more games than Philadelphia since the 2017-18 campaign.
A Vision for the Future
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris expressed his enthusiasm about Embiid's continued association with the team. "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 stated. He further praised Embiid's character and 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."
Embiid's sentiments resonate with the team's ambition and his personal dedication. "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 reflected. With his sights set on an NBA championship, he concluded, "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 76ers prepare for the upcoming season, the firm commitment from their cornerstone player offers hope and renewed determination to capture that elusive NBA title.