Joel Embiid Signs Three-Year Max Contract Extension with the Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid cemented his future with the Philadelphia 76ers, signing a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million, which ensures his stay through the 2028-29 season. This extension not only marks a financial commitment but also solidifies Embiid's place as the cornerstone of the franchise. By the end of this contract, Embiid will be 35 years old, with a player option for the final year allowing him the flexibility to decide his future.
The extension features significant financial milestones. Embiid, opting out of a $59 million player option for the 2026-27 season, will now earn an estimated $59.3 million that year under the new deal. His salary is projected to increase to $64.3 million for the 2027-28 season. If he chooses to exercise his player option for the 2028-29 season, it will be worth approximately $69.1 million, potentially pushing his career earnings beyond the $500 million mark. Over the next five years, Embiid’s estimated earnings amount to a staggering $299.5 million.
A Legacy in Progress
Joel Embiid's journey with the 76ers began when he was drafted as a 20-year-old from Cameroon. Since then, he has developed into one of the league's most dominant big men. Last season, Embiid averaged impressive numbers: 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%. These statistics underscore his all-round impact on the court, contributing both offensively and defensively.
Embiid's accolades include seven All-Star Game selections, five All-NBA team appearances, and three All-Defensive Team selections. His recent triumph at the Olympics in Paris, where he won a gold medal with Team USA, further exemplifies his elite status.
In expressing his commitment to Philadelphia, Embiid stated, "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!" His words echo the sentiment of a player deeply connected to the city that has embraced him through the years. "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 added.
76ers' Vision for the Future
The 76ers' management is equally committed to building a championship-caliber team around Embiid. This offseason, they signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and secured Tyrese Maxey with a five-year max contract. As a result, the franchise has committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey.
In addition to locking down their core players, the 76ers have made strategic additions to their roster. Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele have joined the team, bringing depth and experience. Furthermore, the team has retained key players like Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry while re-signing K.J. Martin to a contract structured to be a potential trade asset near the deadline.
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris expressed his enthusiasm for Embiid’s extension, saying, "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 praised Embiid's qualities beyond his on-court prowess, highlighting his attributes as a family man, leader, and person. "Joel 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."
Challenges and Aspirations
While the 76ers have consistently performed well in the regular season — only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games since the 2017-18 campaign — they have struggled to advance past the second round of the playoffs. The team's recent roster moves and Embiid's extension are part of a broader strategy to break this barrier and achieve post-season success.
Embiid, reflecting on his journey, noted, "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." His gratitude extends to the 76ers' ownership and organization: "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 gear up for the upcoming season, the fans' hopes are higher than ever. With a reinforced roster, a franchise player committed for the long haul, and an unwavering aspiration for a championship, the 76ers are poised to make significant strides towards their ultimate goal.