Philadelphia 76ers Secure Future with Joel Embiid’s Massive Contract Extension
In a monumental move, the Philadelphia 76ers have secured their franchise cornerstone, Joel Embiid, with a groundbreaking three-year max contract extension worth an astounding $193 million. This deal not only solidifies Embiid's future in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season but also positions the team for a sustained championship pursuit.
Embiid, who will be 35 by the end of this extension, has a player option for the final year, giving him flexibility while ensuring his presence in Philadelphia for the foreseeable future. The extension includes staggering figures, with Embiid set to earn an estimated $59.3 million for the 2026-27 season and $64.3 million in 2027-28, culminating in a player option for around $69.1 million in the 2028-29 season. Should he exercise this option, his career earnings will surpass an impressive $500 million.
"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. "There is a lot more work to do. You guys deserve a championship and I think we're just getting started!"
Indeed, the commitment from both Embiid and the 76ers is palpable. The organization has surrounded their star player with elite talent this offseason. Paul George joins the team on a four-year max deal, alongside Tyrese Maxey, who inked a five-year max contract. These significant additions raise the 76ers' commitment to future salaries for Embiid, George, and Maxey to approximately $715 million.
The 76ers also bolstered their roster with key acquisitions, including Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. In a move that demonstrates both loyalty and strategic planning, the team brought back Kelly Oubre Jr. and veteran point guard Kyle Lowry. K.J. Martin’s re-signing also reflects a tactical approach, as his contract is designed to be a valuable trade asset near the deadline.
Over recent seasons, the 76ers have been a dominant force in the regular season, with only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets recording more wins since the 2017-18 campaign. However, despite their regular-season success, the team has struggled to advance past the second round of the playoffs, a hurdle they are determined to overcome with their retooled roster and renewed focus.
Embiid's individual prowess is undeniable. Last season, he averaged an outstanding 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 accolades include seven All-Star appearances, five All-NBA team selections, and three All-Defensive team nods. His recent gold medal win with Team USA at the Olympics in Paris further cements his status as one of the elite players in the game today.
"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," said Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris. "We're ecstatic that this extension keeps him and his family in Philadelphia for years to come."
The loyalty between player and franchise is mutual and deep-rooted. Embiid, who was drafted by the 76ers as a 20-year-old from Cameroon, has grown into a community icon and fan favorite. "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 expressed.
Harris further highlighted Embiid's unique combination of attributes: "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 the upcoming season, the focus is clear: translating their regular-season dominance into postseason success. Embiid's extension, combined with the strategic offseason acquisitions, underscores the franchise's commitment to bringing an NBA championship to Philadelphia. The community, infused with confidence and excitement, eagerly anticipates what lies ahead.
"I started a Sixer and want to be right here for the rest of my career," Embiid affirmed. "I had no idea when I was drafted as a 20-year-old kid from Cameroon how lucky I was to be in 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."