In all of the basketball world, few stories are more compelling than Joel Embiid’s. The journey that has taken him from a young boy in Cameroon, to one of the biggest stars in the NBA is inspiring. Embiid is an overwhelming presence on the court. The Philadelphia 76ers made him the highest paid player in their history, paying $55.2 million in the 2025 NBA season.
Historically Undersized Star:
Embiid did not have your typical basketball upbringing. When he was a teenager, as soon as he grabbed a basketball, his talent showed up quickly. To pursue his basketball dreams, Embiid moved to the United States and later played college basketball at the University of Kansas. After some ups and downs, he was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2014. But he would not see the court for his first two full seasons, due to injuries. Fans and analysts began to expect if we would ever play basketball again. Embiid persevered and worked hard, stayed committed and made his debut during the 2016-2017 season.
From the beginning, the public could see how unique he was. In his first year, he averaged over 20 points a game and he brought energy and hope back to the franchise. In no time, he received the nickname he still goes by today, “The Process.” This was a nod to the 76ers long rebuilding plan he represented.
The Huge Contract:
By the time the 2025 season rolled around, Embiid had shown he was worth all the attention he was getting. That year, Embiid signed a record-setting contract of $55.2 million. The largest contract in franchise history. This deal shows how valuable the 76ers see Embiid as a person and player, and why he is their designated leader. This also shows how far the financial landscape of the NBA has evolved. The NBA is enjoying an incredible revenue flow from television contracts, merchandise sales, and a growing and global fan base.
A Major Impact on the 76ers:
Joel Embiid has helped change the 76ers approach to basketball. As a center, he can score with finesse near the basket, hit a 3-point shot, block shots, and go get rebounds. We saw Embiid lead the entire league in scoring in the 2024-2025 season with 33 points per game. On top of that, he averaged over 10 rebounds and more than 4 assists each night.
But Embiid’s contributions were not just in the statistics he compiled. He is a true leader. Younger teammates like Tyrese Maxey and Matisse Thybulle, are true fans of Embiid and learn from him every day. His dedication to training and the competitive nature he brings, helps propel the entire team forward.
Adored On and Off the Court:
Embiid has won over the people of Philadelphia in considerable fashion, not just for his ability to play a game, but for his ability to truly connect with people. He is involved in his community, he champions local causes, and he gives back philanthropically. No matter how big or small, whether it is helping kids or supporting schools, Embiid is looking to make a difference.
That connection he has made with the fans of the city is unwavering. Philadelphia has the reputation as home to the most passionate sports fans in the world. And they accepted Embiid as one of their own. He obviously loves Philadelphia, and the fans appreciate how much it means to him to play for them.
What lies ahead for Embiid and the 76ers?
With his big contract, it looks like Embiid intends to stick around with the 76ers for the long term. He is the face of the franchise and they are hoping to win an NBA championship with him. They have made the playoffs plenty of times during his career, but still no championship. There will always be pressure as the highest-paid player, but Embiid has shown that he is capable of handling such pressure. He has been capable to performing at a high level even in the brightest of limelight. He is now focused on helping the team take that next big step.
Conclusion:
Joel Embiid’s journey has been a great trail. He has bounced back from injuries, proved doubters and naysayers wrong, and now has emerged at the peak of the game. He is now set to make $55.2 million a year. With the contract and value that they see in him, the 76ers have made Embiid the highest paid player in their history and may be recognizing him as one of their most valuable players in the entire league right now. No matter the future here, Embiid’s story is very exemplary of talent, hardworking and patience creating structures for opportunity. While the 76ers will keep building around him, the enthusiasts will maintain hope within his potential to take home the long sought after NBA championship.
