Joel Embiid Signs Three-Year Max Contract Extension with 76ers
In a landmark move solidifying Joel Embiid's future with the Philadelphia 76ers, the star center has agreed to a three-year max contract extension valued at $193 million. This new deal ensures Embiid will remain in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season, a testament to both his loyalty to the city and the franchise's commitment to building around their MVP-caliber cornerstone.
At the conclusion of this extension, Embiid will be 35 years old, a veteran presence on a team that has seen its share of ups and downs in recent seasons. The contract includes a player option for the final year, giving Embiid flexibility as he approaches the latter stages of his illustrious career.
Joel Embiid's decision to turn down a $59 million player option for the 2026-27 season in favor of the new extension underscores his confidence in his value and his belief in the team's direction. Under the new terms, he will earn an estimated $59.3 million for the 2026-27 season. In subsequent years, his salary is projected to rise to $64.3 million in 2027-28, with the player option for the 2028-29 season valued at approximately $69.1 million. If Embiid opts into this final year, his total career earnings will surpass $500 million.
Reflecting on the extension, Embiid expressed his deep connection with the city. "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!"
Embiid's gratitude towards the fans was palpable. "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 shared. Since being drafted as a 20-year-old from Cameroon, Embiid has grown both on and off the court, becoming a beloved figure in Philadelphia.
Impressive On-Court Performance
Last season, Joel Embiid delivered one of the best performances of his career, averaging 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. His usage rate of 38.7% highlights his central role in the team's offense. Embiid's elite play has earned him seven All-Star appearances, five All-NBA selections, and three All-Defensive Team nods.
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris articulated the significance of Embiid's extension. "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’s contributions: "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."
Reinforcements for a Championship Run
This offseason, the 76ers have made significant moves to bolster their roster around Embiid. They signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and extended Tyrese Maxey with a five-year max contract. Together with Embiid's extension, the 76ers have committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to these three marquee players.
To further strengthen their roster, the 76ers have added Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Additionally, they have brought back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry, while re-signing K.J. Martin to a contract designed to be a valuable trade asset near the deadline.
Despite the team's regular season success in recent years, where only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games since the 2017-18 campaign, the 76ers have struggled to advance past the second round of the playoffs. However, with their aggressive moves this offseason, the franchise appears poised to make a deeper postseason run.
Embiid's dedication to the team and city is unwavering. "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 message is clear: It's time to bring Philadelphia an NBA championship. "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."
With Embiid locked in for the long haul and a fortified roster surrounding him, the 76ers are ready to chase the championship that both the team and its passionate fanbase have long desired.