Joel Embiid Secures Future in Philadelphia with New Max Contract Extension
In a significant move for the Philadelphia 76ers, star center Joel Embiid has signed a three-year max contract extension valued at $193 million, ensuring his presence in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season. This lucrative deal underlines the Sixers' commitment to their franchise player and highlights their belief in his capabilities to lead the team to an NBA championship.
Embiid’s new contract is structured with a player option for the final year, a strategic decision that both secures his future earnings and provides flexibility. Interestingly, Embiid turned down a player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season under his previous deal. This new agreement, however, sees him earning an estimated $59.3 million for that same season, with his salary increasing to $64.3 million in 2027-28. If Embiid opts in for the 2028-29 season, he stands to earn approximately $69.1 million.
This extension is more than a financial transaction; it is a testament to Embiid’s profound impact on the franchise and the city of Philadelphia. Since being drafted as a 20-year-old from Cameroon, Embiid has become a cornerstone of the 76ers, embodying both their present hopes and future aspirations. By the end of his contract, Embiid will be 35 years old, potentially ending his career with the team that saw him blossom into one of the league’s elite players.
"Philadelphia is home. I want to be here for the rest of my career," Embiid proclaimed. "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 recent seasons have been nothing short of spectacular. Last season, he averaged an astonishing 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 dominance on both ends of the court has been recognized with seven All-Star selections, five All-NBA team honors, and three All-Defensive Team nods.
The 76ers' Managing Partner Josh Harris could not hold back his admiration for Embiid. "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 went on to commend Embiid’s character, calling him "a great family man, leader, and person" whose combination of size, strength, and athleticism is rarely seen in the league.
Building a Championship Contender
Beyond retaining Embiid, the 76ers have made significant moves this offseason, investing heavily in surrounding him with talent capable of contending for an NBA title. They have signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and secured Tyrese Maxey with a five-year max contract. Collectively, the franchise has committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey.
The roster has been further bolstered with the additions of Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Additionally, the team has brought back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry while re-signing K.J. Martin to a strategic contract aimed at trade flexibility near the deadline.
These moves come against the backdrop of the 76ers' recent playoff struggles, as they have not advanced past the second round despite being one of the league's most consistent teams since the 2017-18 season. Only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games than the Sixers during this period. This offseason’s aggressive approach underscores the franchise’s determination to break through those barriers and make a deep playoff run.
Embiid’s loyalty to the team and city is evident. "I started a Sixer and want to be right here for the rest of my career," he reflected. "I had no idea when I was drafted as a 20-year-old kid from Cameroon how lucky I was to be in Philadelphia." He also extended his gratitude to the team’s leadership, saying, "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."
Looking ahead, the 76ers have not only solidified their core with Embiid’s extension but also positioned themselves as serious contenders for the coming seasons. With a blend of star power, veteran presence, and strategic planning, Philadelphia appears poised to take the next step in their quest for an NBA title, driven by the heart and determination of their superstar, Joel Embiid.