Joel Embiid Extends Stay in Philadelphia with Massive Contract
Philadelphia 76ers fans have reason to rejoice as the team's star center, Joel Embiid, has inked a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million. This lucrative deal ensures that Embiid will remain with the 76ers through the 2028-29 season, keeping one of the NBA's elite talents in the City of Brotherly Love well into his mid-thirties.
Embiid, who will be 35 when his new contract concludes, expressed his unwavering commitment to the 76ers and their fans. "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 passionately stated.
The new contract includes a player option for the final year, giving Embiid some flexibility while still ensuring financial stability. Notably, Embiid declined a $59 million player option for the 2026-27 season under his previous deal. Under this new extension, he is slated to earn an estimated $59.3 million for that same season. His salary will rise to approximately $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season, with the player option for the 2028-29 season valued at around $69.1 million.
If Embiid exercises his player option, his career earnings will exceed the $500 million mark, a testament to his immense value both on and off the court. Over the next five years alone, he is projected to earn $299.5 million.
The 76ers, who have consistently been contenders but have fallen short of reaching the Eastern Conference Finals, are banking on Embiid to lead them to new heights. Last season, Embiid posted astonishing numbers, averaging 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. His usage rate was an incredible 38.7%, underscoring his central role in the team's offense.
Embiid's accolades speak volumes about his dominance in the league. A seven-time All-Star, he has also been named to five All-NBA teams and three All-Defensive Teams. Furthermore, he recently added an Olympic gold medal to his resume, triumphing with Team USA in Paris.
Major Offseason Moves by the 76ers
The 76ers have shown they are committed to building a championship-caliber roster around Embiid. This offseason, they signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and secured rising star Tyrese Maxey with a five-year max contract. In total, the 76ers have committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey.
Additionally, the team has bolstered its depth with key acquisitions, including Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. They have also retained the services of Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry, adding seasoned veterans to their ranks. K.J. Martin was re-signed, likely as a strategic move to use him as a trade asset near the deadline.
Embiid's Legacy in Philadelphia
Drafted by the 76ers as a 20-year-old from Cameroon, Embiid has evolved into one of the franchise's legends. Reflecting on his journey, 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 Embiid's sentiments, emphasizing his profound impact on the team and the city. "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 remarked.
Embiid's presence in Philadelphia transcends his on-court contributions. He is regarded as a great family man, leader, and person. Harris further expressed, "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."
As the 76ers gear up for another season, their roster moves and Embiid's steadfast dedication signal a profound commitment to bringing an NBA championship back 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," Embiid declared, setting the stage for what fans hope will be a historic era for the franchise.