Joel Embiid Signs Three-Year Max Contract Extension with Philadelphia 76ers
In a move that cements his legacy with the franchise, Joel Embiid has signed a three-year max contract extension with the Philadelphia 76ers worth $193 million. This extension ensures that Embiid remains in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season, solidifying the team's commitment to their star player.
Embiid, who will be 35 years old by the end of his contract, expressed his deep connection to Philadelphia. “Philadelphia is home,” he said emphatically. “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!”
One of the notable aspects of the new contract is its structure. The extension includes a player option for the final year, giving Embiid flexibility and potential leverage. Interestingly, Embiid turned down a player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season under his previous contract. Under the new terms, he will make an estimated $59.3 million for the 2026-27 season, with his salary increasing to an estimated $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season. The player option for the 2028-29 season is valued at approximately $69.1 million.
If Embiid chooses to pick up his player option, his total career earnings will surpass a monumental $500 million. Over the next five years alone, Embiid's estimated earnings amount to $299.5 million.
“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 shared, showcasing his gratitude to the Philadelphia community.
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris also expressed his excitement about keeping Embiid in the fold. “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 further praised Embiid, 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.”
Embiid has certainly proven his worth on the court. Last season, he averaged an impressive 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 accolades include participation in seven All-Star Games, five All-NBA team selections, and three All-Defensive Team selections. Recently, Embiid added an Olympic gold medal to his résumé, winning with Team USA in Paris.
Philadelphia 76ers' Ambitious Offseason
The 76ers' off-season moves reflect their determination to build a championship contender. The team has secured notable acquisitions including Paul George and Tyrese Maxey, both signed to max deals. George joins on a four-year contract, while Maxey has committed to a five-year agreement. In total, the 76ers have committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey.
Additionally, the 76ers have bolstered their roster with the signings of Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Returning talents include Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry. The 76ers also strategically re-signed K.J. Martin to a contract designed to be a trade asset near the deadline.
Since the 2017-18 season, only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games than the 76ers. However, Philadelphia has yet to advance past the second round of the playoffs in recent seasons – a hurdle they are eager to overcome.
A Promising Future
Joel Embiid's journey from a 20-year-old draftee from Cameroon to one of the NBA's premier talents has been remarkable. “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 a solid foundation and a clear mission, the Philadelphia 76ers are poised to pursue the championship dreams of their passionate fan base. As Embiid aptly put it, “Philadelphia is home and it's time to bring this community an NBA championship.”