Joel Embiid's Commitment to Philadelphia Extends to 2029 with New Max Contract
Philadelphia has always been a city that cherishes its sports heroes, and Joel Embiid’s recent contract extension cements him as a Sixer for several more years. Embiid has agreed to a three-year max contract extension worth $193 million with the Philadelphia 76ers. This extension ensures that the charismatic center will stay with the team through the 2028-29 season, a move that carries implications both on and off the court.
At the conclusion of his new contract, Embiid will be 35 years old, having solidified his legacy in Philadelphia. The extension features a player option in the final year, a strategic move that could allow Embiid further flexibility as his career progresses.
"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 expressed when the news of the extension broke.
Interestingly, Embiid turned down a previous player option worth $59 million for the 2026-27 season. Under the new terms, he will earn an estimated $59.3 million that same season, steadily increasing to $64.3 million in the 2027-28 season. The player option for the 2028-29 season is valued at approximately $69.1 million. Should Embiid exercise this option, his total career earnings will surpass the monumental $500 million mark, a testament to both his talent and market value.
Joel Embiid's estimated earnings over the next five years are projected to be $299.5 million, reflective of his critical role within the team and the league. His on-court performance has consistently underscored his value; last season, he averaged an astonishing 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, 11.0 rebounds, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game. His usage rate of 38.7% was one of the highest in the league, further highlighting his central role in the 76ers’ strategy.
Embiid’s stellar career includes participation in seven All-Star Games, selections to five All-NBA teams, and three All-Defensive Teams. Additionally, he recently added an Olympic gold medal with Team USA in Paris to his extensive list of accolades.
Philadelphia 76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris lauded Embiid’s contributions to the franchise, 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."
This offseason has been particularly active for the Sixers. In addition to Embiid’s extension, the team signed Paul George to a four-year max deal and sealed a five-year max contract for Tyrese Maxey. As a result, the 76ers have now committed approximately $715 million in future salaries to Embiid, George, and Maxey. This financial commitment signals the organization’s concerted effort to build a championship-caliber roster.
Additional roster moves include the acquisitions of Caleb Martin, Andre Drummond, Eric Gordon, Reggie Jackson, and Guerschon Yabusele. The team also brought back Kelly Oubre Jr. and Kyle Lowry, and re-signed K.J. Martin with the intention of him being a potential trade asset near the deadline.
"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 shared, reflecting on his journey from being drafted as a 20-year-old kid from Cameroon to becoming a Philadelphia icon.
Since the 2017-18 campaign, the 76ers have been one of the most successful teams in the league, boasting a record only surpassed by the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets. However, postseason success has eluded them, with the team failing to advance past the second round in recent seasons. The front office and fans alike are hopeful that these new commitments and acquisitions will finally bring an NBA Championship to Philadelphia.
Joel Embiid remains optimistic about the future. "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," the star center noted. "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 a rejuvenated roster and the unwavering support of the city, Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers have their sights firmly set on achieving the ultimate goal: bringing an NBA championship to Philadelphia. As the new season approaches, this mission has never felt more attainable.