In a monumental move that underscores the Philadelphia 76ers' commitment to retaining their star talent, Joel Embiid has signed a three-year max contract extension worth a staggering $193 million. This extension solidifies Embiid's presence in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season and hints at the franchise's determination to build a championship contender around their cornerstone player.
Embiid's contract extension, which features a player option for the final year, will keep the prolific center in Philadelphia until he is 35 years old. Notably, Embiid turned down a lucrative player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season under his previous contract. Instead, under the new terms, he will earn an estimated $59.3 million for that same season.
As the years progress, Embiid's salary will follow an upward trajectory, increasing to an estimated $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season. If he opts into his player option for the 2028-29 season, he will earn approximately $69.1 million. Should Embiid choose this path, his total career earnings will surpass the remarkable $500 million milestone, with estimated earnings over the next five years reaching $299.5 million.
The decision to extend Embiid's contract is a testament to his extraordinary performance on the court. Last season, Embiid averaged an impressive 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game, demonstrating his immense value to the team. His usage rate of 38.7% is indicative of his central role in the 76ers' offense, further highlighting his indispensability.
Over the years, Embiid has amassed numerous accolades, including seven All-Star Game appearances, five selections to All-NBA teams, and three All-Defensive Team honors. Recently, he added a gold medal with Team USA at the Paris Olympics to his list of accomplishments.
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris was effusive in his praise of Embiid, stating, "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 emphasized Embiid's significant impact, both on and off the court, saying, "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."
The 76ers' commitment to constructing a formidable roster around Embiid is evident in their recent moves. This offseason, the team signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and secured Tyrese Maxey with a five-year max contract. These deals, combined with Embiid's extension, bring the franchise's total commitment to approximately $715 million in future salaries for the trio.
In addition to these blockbuster signings, the 76ers have bolstered their roster with key additions, including Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. The team has also retained valuable players such as Kelly Oubre Jr., Kyle Lowry, and re-signed K.J. Martin to a strategic contract aimed at becoming a trade asset near the deadline.
Despite their regular-season success – since the 2017-18 campaign, only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games – the 76ers have struggled to advance past the second round of the playoffs. However, with the recent roster enhancements and Embiid's continued presence, the team is poised to make a deep postseason run.
Embiid's journey with the 76ers began when he was drafted as a 20-year-old from Cameroon. Reflecting on his career and the extension, Embiid expressed his deep connection to the city and its fans, saying, "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!" He added, "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."
Embiid's extension not only secures the future of one of the NBA's premier talents but also signals the 76ers' unwavering resolve to bring a championship to Philadelphia. As he aptly put it, "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. 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."