Joel Embiid's New Contract Extension
Joel Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP, has solidified his commitment to the Philadelphia 76ers by signing a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million. This new agreement will keep Embiid in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 season, ensuring that the 76ers retain their cornerstone player well into the future. By the conclusion of this contract, Embiid will be 35 years old, but he remains driven by the goal of bringing a championship to the city he calls home.
"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 expressed. "There is a lot more work to do. You guys deserve a championship, and I think we're just getting started!"
Located in the passionate sports town of Philadelphia, Embiid's connection to the city is profound. Drafted by the 76ers as a 20-year-old from Cameroon, Embiid has seen both highs and lows in his career but has always felt the unwavering support of the fans. "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 shared.
Financial Breakdown and Future Earnings
Embiid's new deal includes a player option for the final year, offering flexibility for both the player and the franchise. Notably, Embiid turned down a player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season, instead opting to extend his stay with the team. Under the new extension, Embiid is slated to earn an estimated $59.3 million for the 2026-27 season. His salary will further increase to approximately $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season, with the player option for the 2028-29 season valued around $69.1 million.
Should Embiid choose to exercise his player option, his total career earnings will surpass the $500 million mark, a testament to his value and impact in the league. Over the next five years, Embiid's estimated earnings amount to $299.5 million, underscoring his pivotal role within the organization.
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris emphasized how crucial Embiid is to the franchise. "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 stated.
Team Dynamics and the Quest for a Championship
In addition to Embiid's extension, the 76ers have made several significant moves this offseason to bolster their roster. They signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and Tyrese Maxey to a five-year max deal, committing approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey combined. The team has also added veterans like Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele, while bringing back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry. The re-signing of K.J. Martin was strategically designed to be a trade asset near the deadline.
Despite these investments, the 76ers have found it tough to break through in recent postseason runs, failing to advance past the second round of the playoffs. However, since the 2017-18 campaign, the 76ers have remained a formidable force in the regular season, with only the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets notching more wins during this period.
Harris further lauded Embiid’s influence on and off the court. "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."
Embiid's dedication to the team and city remains steadfast. "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," he nostalgically reflected. "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." It is clear that with Joel Embiid at the helm, the 76ers are poised to remain competitive as they pursue their elusive goal of an NBA title.