In a landmark move that will have a lasting impact on the landscape of the NBA, Joel Embiid has inked a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million with the Philadelphia 76ers. This deal not only reaffirms Embiid's commitment to the franchise but also secures his presence in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season.
The extension comes with significant financial figures and notable clauses. Embiid, who will be 35 years old at the end of this contract, has a player option for the final year. This option, valued at approximately $69.1 million, underscores the lucrative nature of the agreement. Despite turning down a player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season, Embiid's new extension will see him earning an estimated $59.3 million that same year, with his salary escalating to $64.3 million for the 2027-28 season.
In a statement reflecting his deep connection to Philadelphia, Embiid expressed, "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 career trajectory with the 76ers has been stellar. He averaged an impressive 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game last season, highlighting his all-around prowess on the court. His usage rate stood at 38.7%, emphasizing his central role in the team's offensive strategies. Over his career, Embiid has earned selections to seven All-Star Games, five All-NBA teams, and three All-Defensive Teams. Adding to his accolades, he recently clinched a gold medal with Team USA at the Olympics in Paris.
The 76ers organization has shown a clear intention to build a championship-contending roster around Embiid. This offseason, they made bold moves by signing Paul George to a four-year max deal and securing Tyrese Maxey with a five-year max contract. Overall, the 76ers have committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey.
Additional new acquisitions include Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Meanwhile, the 76ers have also retained key players like Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry and re-signed K.J. Martin to a contract designed as a potential trade asset near the deadline. These moves signify the franchise's aggressive approach in assembling a roster capable of making a deep playoff run.
Though the 76ers have consistently been one of the top teams in the regular season since the 2017-18 campaign, only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games. However, postseason success has eluded the franchise, as they have not advanced past the second round of the playoffs in recent seasons. The organization's ambition is clear: to bring an NBA championship to Philadelphia.
Embiid's journey from being drafted as a 20-year-old from Cameroon to becoming one of the biggest names in the NBA is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Reflecting on his time with the franchise, he 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."
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris echoed this sentiment, praising Embiid's impact both on and off the court. "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.
Harris also highlighted Embiid's attributes beyond his on-court abilities. "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," Harris added.
As the 76ers gear up for the upcoming season, the city of Philadelphia holds high hopes. Embiid summed up his commitment to the franchise and its fans, stating, "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."