Joel Embiid's Commitment and the 76ers' Ambitious Moves
Joel Embiid has solidified his long-term commitment to the Philadelphia 76ers, signing a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million. This lucrative deal ensures that Embiid will remain with the team through the 2028-29 season, when he will be 35 years old. The contract also features a player option for the final year, demonstrating a mutual commitment between Embiid and the 76ers to continue their partnership.
Embiid's decision to stay in Philadelphia was no surprise to those who have followed his career. Since being drafted by the 76ers as a 20-year-old from Cameroon, Embiid has become a vital figure in Philadelphia. “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," Embiid stated. He further expressed his ambition, saying, "There is a lot more work to do. You guys deserve a championship and I think we’re just getting started!”
The financial details of Embiid's extension are substantial. He turned down a player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season, only to secure an even more favorable deal under the new terms. He is set to make an estimated $59.3 million for the 2026-27 season, with his salary increasing to an estimated $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season. The player option for the 2028-29 season is valued at approximately $69.1 million, which could elevate Embiid's total career earnings beyond $500 million if exercised. Over the next five years, Embiid is projected to earn an impressive $299.5 million.
Embiid's impact on the court has been profound. Last season, he averaged 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game while maintaining a usage rate of 38.7%. His statistics reflect his dominant presence and skill in almost every facet of the game. "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," lauded Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris. "We’re ecstatic that this extension keeps him and his family in Philadelphia for years to come."
Embiid's individual accolades are impressive, with seven All-Star appearances, five All-NBA selections, and three All-Defensive Team honors. His recent success extends internationally, as he won a gold medal with Team USA at the Olympics in Paris.
In addition to securing Embiid's future, the 76ers have made several strategic moves this offseason. They signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and Tyrese Maxey to a five-year max deal. Their total commitment in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey is approximately $715 million. The 76ers have also bolstered their roster by adding Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. Furthermore, they brought back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry.
K.J. Martin was re-signed to a contract designed to be a trade asset near the deadline, providing the 76ers with additional flexibility. Despite their recent regular-season success—only trailing behind the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets since the 2017-18 campaign—the 76ers have struggled to advance past the second round of the playoffs. This series of acquisitions could be aimed at rectifying their postseason struggles.
Reflecting on his journey, Embiid shared, "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 continued, "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 also praised Embiid's character and contribution, stating, "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 new season approaches, the 76ers, armed with a redefined roster and the unwavering loyalty of their star player, aim to break their playoff curse and bring an NBA Championship to Philadelphia. If Embiid's words and the team's recent moves are any indication, the 76ers are gearing up for a significant run. "Philadelphia is home," Embiid concluded, "and it’s time to bring this community an NBA championship.”