Philadelphia 76ers guard Quentin Grimes says he’s putting a complicated offseason behind him after signing his $8.7 million qualifying offer to stay in Philadelphia for the 2025–26 season.
According to The Athletic’s Tony Jones, Grimes acknowledged the drawn-out negotiations that kept his future uncertain through much of the summer. “It was the process,” he said Wednesday. “It was knowing that I couldn’t control it. But it’s in the past, and I know that it’s a business. I’m here to play for the city of Philly and play for my team.”
Grimes’ return ends months of talks that never produced a long-term deal. According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Sixers’ highest one-year offer reached roughly $9 million, well below the guard’s expectations.
His agent, David Bauman, confirmed that multiple counteroffers were turned down, including a one-year, $17 million proposal that waived Grimes’ no-trade clause and a two-year, $34 million contract with a player option. Philadelphia’s first offer — a four-year, $39 million deal submitted on September 24 — also failed to gain traction.
In the end, both sides agreed the qualifying offer was the most practical outcome. By signing it, Grimes retains his no-trade protection and will enter unrestricted free agency next summer with full control over his next move.
The 25-year-old guard was acquired by the Sixers in February from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Caleb Martin and a 2025 second-round pick. He immediately became a consistent scoring option, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists across 28 games after the trade.
Despite the challenges of the offseason, Grimes emphasized his commitment to the Sixers. “I’d like to be here long term,” he told The Athletic, noting that his focus is on contributing to the team’s success.
