Philadelphia's Trust in "The Process" Deepens: Joel Embiid Signs $193 Million Extension
When Joel Embiid was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers as a 20-year-old from Cameroon, no one could have predicted the indelible mark he would leave on the franchise and the city. Now, with a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million, the partnership between Embiid and Philadelphia is set to continue through the 2028-29 season, culminating in an estimated career earning surpassing $500 million if he picks up his player option for the final year.
The extension, replete with a player option for the 2028-29 season valued at approximately $69.1 million, ensures Embiid will be donning the Sixers' jersey well into his mid-30s. By then, Embiid will be 35 years old, ideally still dominating the hardwood with the same ferocity that has defined his career. "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 terms of the extension reflect the organization's commitment to its cornerstone player. Under the new deal, Embiid will earn an estimated $59.3 million for the 2026-27 season, which he had previously turned down in a player option, choosing instead to realign his future with the Sixers'. His salary will further escalate to $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season, affirming his place amongst the highest-paid players in the league.
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris captured the sentiment of the moment, 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’s recognition of Embiid’s stature speaks volumes of the player’s impact both on and off the court.
Indeed, Embiid’s performances have been remarkable. Last season, he showcased his dominance with averages of 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. His usage rate stood at an astounding 38.7%, underscoring his central role in the team’s offense. An All-Star veteran, Embiid has been selected to the prestigious event seven times, alongside five All-NBA team selections and three All-Defensive team honors. Recently, he added an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in Paris to his burgeoning list of accolades.
The Sixers have been active this offseason, further consolidating their roster around Embiid. They signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and Tyrese Maxey to a five-year max deal, adding approximately $715 million in future salaries between the trio. Supplementing these acquisitions, the Sixers brought in notable players like Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Furthermore, they retained key players such as 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 their competitive regular-season performances since the 2017-18 campaign, with only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets winning more games, the Sixers have yet to advance past the second round of the playoffs in recent seasons. This looming hurdle remains the next big challenge for a team that has its eyes set firmly on an NBA Championship.
Embiid's connection to Philadelphia transcends mere statistics. His relationship with the city and its fans is profoundly 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," Embiid reflected. The affection is mutual, with the Sixers' faithful rallying behind their star through various trials and triumphs.
For Embiid, choosing Philadelphia wasn't solely about financial security. "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 remarked.
As Embiid continues to build his legacy in Philadelphia, the city eagerly anticipates the next chapter. "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 reminisced. His gratitude extends to the franchise's leadership, as he expressed, "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 Embiid locked in for the foreseeable future, the Sixers' quest for an elusive championship continues, fueled by the unyielding bond between the franchise and its star player.