In a move that reinforces the Philadelphia 76ers' commitment to contending for an NBA championship, Joel Embiid has inked a lucrative three-year max contract extension worth $193 million. This extension will keep Embiid in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season, providing the team with a solid foundation for years to come.
At the heart of the extension lies a player option for the final year, a strategic move by Embiid, who will be 35 years old when his new contract concludes. Notably, Embiid declined a previous player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season, opting instead for the estimated $59.3 million he will earn under the new terms. His salary is set to rise to approximately $64.3 million in 2027-28, with the player option in 2028-29 valued at around $69.1 million. Should he choose to exercise this option, Embiid's total career earnings will surpass the $500 million mark.
"Philadelphia is home," Embiid stated passionately. "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's decision to remain with the 76ers reflects his deep connection to the city and its 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," he added. Since being drafted by the 76ers as a 20-year-old from Cameroon, Embiid has developed into one of the league’s premier talents, as evidenced by his participation in seven All-Star Games, selections to five All-NBA teams, and three All-Defensive Teams.
Last season, Embiid had a stellar performance, 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 contributions have cemented his status not just as a franchise player for the 76ers, but as one of the greatest in the game.
"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," lauded Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris. "We're ecstatic that this extension keeps him and his family in Philadelphia for years to come."
Embiid’s extension is part of a broader strategy by the 76ers to build a championship-caliber roster. The team has committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey, who have also signed significant contracts. The offseason has been busy for the 76ers, as they have brought in notable players such as Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Additionally, they have re-signed Kelly Oubre Jr., Kyle Lowry, and K.J. Martin, the latter on a deal designed to be a valuable trade asset nearing the deadline.
Reflecting on his journey, Embiid said, "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 extended to the leadership within the organization, as he expressed, "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."
While the 76ers have been consistent contenders, only trailing the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets in wins since the 2017-18 season, they have struggled to advance past the second round of the playoffs. The new contracts and roster additions signal a clear intent to solidify the team’s core and make a deep playoff run, something that both the franchise and its ardent fan base desire fervently.
Joel Embiid’s extension places a significant bet on his continued excellence and health. With his leadership both on and off the court, embodying the qualities of a great family man, leader, and elite two-way player, the resolution of Philadelphia's championship drought might just be within reach.