Joel Embiid Commits Long-Term to Philadelphia 76ers with Massive Extension
Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid has solidified his future with the team by signing a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million. The extension keeps the dominant center in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season, when he will be 35 years old. This substantial deal features a player option for the final year, offering both security and flexibility for the reigning MVP.
Embiid's decision to extend his contract comes with significant financial incentives. Notably, he turned down a player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season. Under the new extension, Embiid will now make an estimated $59.3 million that year. His salary will then increase to an estimated $64.3 million in 2027-28, with the player option for 2028-29 valued at approximately $69.1 million. If he picks up this option, his total career earnings will soar past the $500 million mark, with an estimated $299.5 million coming in the next five years alone.
Reflecting on his journey, Embiid said, "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!" For Embiid, the connection with Philadelphia is deeply personal. "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 added.
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris shared his enthusiasm about Embiid's commitment to the team: "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 continued, "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."
Embiid's impact on the court is undeniable. Last season, he averaged an astonishing 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game, recording a usage rate of 38.7%. His improved passing under the guidance of coach Nick Nurse further expanded his game, making him an even more versatile threat. Additionally, Embiid's achievements include seven All-Star Games, five All-NBA teams, and three All-Defensive Team selections. His recent gold medal with Team USA at the Olympics in Paris further cements his status as one of the elite players in basketball today.
The 76ers have been active in building a contender around Embiid. This offseason, the team signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and Tyrese Maxey to a five-year max deal. In total, the franchise has committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey.
The front office, led by Daryl Morey, also bolstered the roster with the additions of Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Furthermore, the 76ers brought back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry, and re-signed K.J. Martin to a contract designed to be a trade asset near the deadline.
Despite consistently being one of the top teams in the league during the regular season—only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets have won more games since the 2017-18 campaign—the 76ers have yet to advance past the second round of the playoffs. With these new acquisitions and Embiid's continued presence, Philadelphia aims to finally break through and compete for an NBA Championship.
Embiid's dedication to the Sixers is evident as he looks forward to the upcoming seasons. "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," he reminisced.
For the Sixers and their passionate fanbase, Embiid's extension symbolizes hope and commitment. As he put it, "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 Joel Embiid's future secured, the Philadelphia 76ers are poised for a promising era, driven by their superstar's unwavering loyalty and relentless pursuit of greatness.