Joel Embiid Inks Massive Extension with 76ers: A Testament to Loyalty and Dominance
Philadelphia 76ers fans can breathe a sigh of relief. Joel Embiid, the franchise cornerstone, has committed to the team for the foreseeable future by signing a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million. This extension will keep Embiid, one of the NBA’s premier talents, in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season, ensuring stability and hope for a championship-striving franchise.
Embiid’s new deal, which features a player option for the final year, underscores his importance to the team and his belief in its potential. The superstar center turned down an initial player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season, opting instead for the lucrative extension that will see him make an estimated $59.3 million that same season. By the 2027-28 season, his salary will increase to $64.3 million, with the player option for the 2028-29 season valued at approximately $69.1 million. Should Embiid pick up this option, his total career earnings will surpass the half-billion mark, a remarkable financial milestone.
At the conclusion of this contract, Embiid will be 35 years old, likely having cemented his legacy not just in Philadelphia, but also in the NBA. "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 shared with fans, reaffirming his commitment to the city and its sports culture.
Embiid's performance on the court has been nothing short of spectacular. Last season, he averaged an incredible 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. With a usage rate of 38.7%, his contribution to the team cannot be overstated. His accolades include seven All-Star Game appearances, five All-NBA team selections, and three All-Defensive teams, showcasing his prowess on both ends of the court.
Adding to his illustrious career, Embiid recently won a gold medal with Team USA at the Paris Olympics, a testament to his elite status on the global stage. Reflecting on his journey, Embiid remarked, "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."
The commitment from the 76ers to build a championship contender around Embiid is evident. This offseason, the franchise has made significant moves, signing Paul George to a four-year max deal and Tyrese Maxey to a five-year max deal. With approximately $715 million now committed to Embiid, George, and Maxey, the team’s future looks promising. The addition of key players like Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele further bolsters their roster. Notably, the team has also retained Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry, and re-signed K.J. Martin with a deal designed as a trade asset near the deadline.
Despite their regular-season success, only trailing the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets in win totals since the 2017-18 season, the 76ers have faced challenges in advancing past the second round of the playoffs. However, with these strategic moves, they aim to break through this barrier. Josh Harris, the Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner, emphasized Embiid's value by 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 added, "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."
Joel Embiid's journey from a 20-year-old draftee from Cameroon to an NBA superstar embodies resilience and excellence. "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," Embiid reflected. As the new season approaches, the 76ers and their fans have every reason to be optimistic, ready to rally behind their superstar in the pursuit of an NBA championship.
With a fortified roster and Embiid’s unwavering loyalty, Philadelphia's championship aspirations burn brighter than ever. "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," Embiid emphasized, cementing his pledge to the city and its passionate fans.