Joel Embiid Signs Massive Extension with Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid has solidified his commitment to the Philadelphia 76ers, signing a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million. This new deal extends Embiid's tenure with the 76ers through the 2028-29 NBA season, ensuring that the superstar center will remain in Philadelphia for the foreseeable future. By the end of this contract, Embiid will be 35 years old.
Embiid's extension includes a player option for the final year of the deal, valued at approximately $69.1 million, giving him some flexibility as his career progresses. Interestingly, Embiid had initially turned down a player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season, only to see his salary for that same season jump to an estimated $59.3 million under the new extension. His earnings will further increase to an estimated $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season.
Reflecting on his career and commitment to the city, 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!" Throughout his tenure, Embiid has undeniably become a cornerstone of the franchise. He has participated in seven All-Star Games, been selected for five All-NBA teams, and made three All-Defensive Teams. In recent years, he further solidified his standing by winning a gold medal with Team USA at the Olympics in Paris.
In addition to Embiid's contract, the Philadelphia 76ers have been active this offseason, making significant additions and re-signings. The team signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and secured Tyrese Maxey with a five-year max contract. These moves represent a significant financial commitment, with the franchise committing approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey. The 76ers have also bolstered their roster by adding Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Additionally, they've brought back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry and re-signed K.J. Martin to a contract designed as a potential trade asset near the deadline.
Despite these impactful moves, the 76ers face a daunting challenge ahead. While the team has consistently been a top performer in the regular season — trailing only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets in victories since the 2017-18 campaign — they have struggled to advance past the second round of the playoffs. Nevertheless, the team's ambition is clear. Embiid emphasized this by saying, "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."
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris expressed his excitement about retaining 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 also highlighted Embiid's character and impact on the franchise: "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."
For Joel Embiid, this extension is not just a financial windfall but a testament to his bond with the city and its supporters. He acknowledged the fans' unwavering support, saying, "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." As he looks to the future, Embiid remains focused on delivering success to Philadelphia: "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's commitment and the 76ers' continued investment in talent, the stage is set for a thrilling next chapter in Philadelphia basketball. The fans, the organization, and Embiid himself are all aligned in their pursuit of the ultimate goal – an NBA Championship.