Joel and the Philadelphia 76ers reach agreement on contract extension valued close to $193 million dilars
The agreement includes a provision that, if activated, would keep the 2022-23 NBA MVP in Philadelphia until the conclusion of the 2028-29 season, securing him approximately $300 million, making it one of the most wealthy contracts in NBA history, as reported by ESPN and The Athletic.
Bringing his overall professional earning to $514.8 million, Embiid would join LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and teammate Paul George as members of the NBA's $500M club.
In a statement, Embiid expressed, "I began my Sixers journey and I want to spend the rest of my career here. I had no idea I was so fortunate to be in Philadelphia when I was drafted at 20 from Cameroon."
"Regardless of the highs and lows, this city and fans have been exceptional, and I am extremely grateful for their acceptance. I'd like to express my gratitude towards Josh (Harris), David (Blitzer), and the entire organization. Philadelphia feels like home, and it's time to bring an NBA championship to this community."
Embiid, who has belonged to the 76ers since the 2014 NBA Draft, when he was chosen at No. 3 overall, experienced several setbacks last season due to a knee injury.
Yet, in the matches he did participate in, the Cameroon-born player consistently shone, averaging 34.7 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists. The 76ers had a stellar 31-8 record in games where Embiid played.
This summer also saw Embiid win a gold medal with Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Josh Harris, managing partner of the 76ers, expressed his joy in a statement, saying, "Joel has established himself as one of the greatest Sixers of all time and is well-positioned to become one of the best players to ever grace the court. We're thrilled that this contract will keep him and his family in Philadelphia for years to come."
Throughout his career, Embiid has made it onto the All-NBA Team five times, the All-Star team for each of the last seven seasons, and held the title of NBA scoring champion in both 2021-22 and 2022-23.
While Embiid has yet to win an NBA championship, he may have his best opportunity to achieve that next season, playing alongside George and the NBA's 2024 Most Improved Player Tyrese Maxey.
CNN's Thomas Schlachter contributed to the reporting.
Embiid's lasting commitment to basketball was evident as he stated, "I will continue to give my all to this team and the sport I love." During the off-season, he dedicated his time to recovering from his knee injury, ensuring he would be ready for the upcoming season.
The City of Philadelphia and its sports fans celebrated as Embiid's new contract extension guaranteed his presence in the city's professional basketball scene, further solidifying their love for their homegrown star and their favorite sport.
