Who is Cheryl Pistono? All About The Life Story of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Ex-Girlfriend
Cheryl Pistono is best known for her relationship with basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, but her story goes far beyond that connection. Born in a small Illinois town, Cheryl became an important person in the life of one of basketball’s greatest players. Her journey from a working-class family to becoming a spiritual guide and mother shows strength and independence.
Detailed Bio Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cheryl Pistono |
| Date of Birth | September 6, 1956 |
| Age | 68 years old (as of 2026) |
| Place of Birth | LaSalle, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | John Joseph Pistono Jr. and Sylvia Ann Waclaw |
| Siblings | Kay Boehm, John, James, and Jeffry Pistono |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) |
| Religion | Buddhism |
| Children | Amir Abdul-Jabbar (with Kareem), Jesse, Taaj, and Brianna Jenkins (with Steven Jenkins) |
| Marital Status | Married to Steven Jenkins |
| Relationship with Kareem | 1977-1985 (approximately 7-8 years) |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California |
| Profession | Self-employed, Former nursing and office work |
| Known For | Ex-girlfriend of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Spiritual influence |
Early Life and Background
Cheryl Pistono was born on September 6, 1956, in LaSalle, Illinois. She grew up in a working-class family with strong values. Her parents taught her about hard work, loyalty, and the importance of family. Cheryl had four siblings, making their home full of activity and close bonds.
At just 16 years old, Cheryl made a brave choice that would change her life. She left her small hometown and moved to the West Coast. This decision showed her independent spirit and desire to explore new opportunities. Moving away from home at such a young age was not easy, but it helped shape the strong woman she would become.
After arriving in California, Cheryl attended high school and later went to UCLA for higher education. During this time, she started exploring intellectual ideas and spirituality. California opened her eyes to new cultures and different ways of thinking.
Discovery of Buddhism
One of the most important parts of Cheryl’s life is her practice of Buddhism. She turned to this spiritual path during her time in California. Buddhism became more than just a religion for her—it became a way of life. The teachings about mindfulness, compassion, and personal growth deeply influenced how she approached everything.
Buddhism helped shape her view of the world and influenced her decisions in both personal and professional areas. This spiritual foundation would later play a major role in her relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and continue to guide her throughout her life.
Meeting Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Cheryl Pistono met Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 1977. At that time, Kareem was a basketball superstar playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. He was already famous around the world, but their meeting was quite different from what people might expect.
The interesting part about their first meeting was that Cheryl did not know who Kareem was. She had no interest in sports and did not follow basketball. However, Kareem was determined to get to know her. One day he brought her a rose from his garden, and this simple gesture started what would become an important relationship for both of them.
Their Relationship and Influence
Cheryl and Kareem’s relationship lasted from 1977 to 1985, approximately seven to eight years. Their connection was based on more than just romance. They shared deep intellectual and spiritual interests, especially their practice of Buddhism.
Kareem openly expressed how influential Cheryl was to him. He said she was more influential than his coaches, teachers and teammates. This shows just how important Cheryl was in Kareem’s personal development.
When Cheryl met Kareem, he had been separated from his wife, Habiba, since 1973, but they were not yet divorced. It was Cheryl who convinced him to file for divorce. She helped him move forward with his life and make important decisions.
Beyond helping with personal matters, Cheryl had a deep impact on Kareem’s spiritual journey. She introduced him to Eastern philosophies and encouraged him to develop a more thoughtful approach to life. Her influence helped transform Kareem from just a basketball star into someone who thought deeply about life’s bigger questions.
Family Life
In 1980, Cheryl and Kareem welcomed their son, Amir Abdul-Jabbar. Having a child brought new joy and responsibility to their relationship. Even though Cheryl and Kareem decided not to marry, they were both committed to being good parents.
The couple separated in 1985. Despite the breakup, they maintained a respectful relationship focused on raising their son together. This mature approach to co-parenting showed her wisdom and care for their son’s well-being.
Their son Amir grew up to become a doctor. He earned his medical degree from the University of California, San Francisco, in 2012 and now works as an orthopedic and spinal surgeon. When Kareem was diagnosed with leukemia in 2008, Amir helped his father understand the treatment options, showing the strong bond they maintained.
Life After Kareem
After her relationship with Kareem ended, Cheryl Pistono moved forward with her life. She married Steven Jenkins in 1985 and together they built a family in Los Angeles. With Steven, Cheryl has three more children: Jesse, Taaj, and Brianna Jenkins.
Unlike her time in the spotlight with Kareem, Cheryl has chosen a more private existence. She has mostly stayed out of the public eye and maintains a low-key, self-employed lifestyle. This choice shows her preference for a quiet life focused on family and personal growth rather than fame or attention.
Career and Professional Life
Throughout her life, Cheryl Pistono has pursued different career paths. She has worked in nursing and gained experience in legal and accounting offices. These varied career choices show her willingness to learn new things and adapt to different situations.
Currently, Cheryl is self-employed and continues to live in Los Angeles. While specific details about her business are not widely known, she has built a life that gives her independence and flexibility to focus on what matters most to her: family and spiritual practice.
Spiritual Journey and Personal Philosophy
Buddhism remains central to Cheryl’s life and identity. The practice of mindfulness, compassion, and self-reflection guides her daily decisions and interactions with others. Her spiritual beliefs have helped her handle life’s challenges with grace and strength.
Her spiritual guidance was important to Kareem’s transformation from a basketball star to a well-rounded individual, seeking meaning and purpose beyond the game. Even today, Cheryl continues to practice Buddhism, which provides her with peace and purpose.
Cultural Impact and Recognition
Although Cheryl has lived most of her life away from the spotlight, her story gained renewed attention in 2022. The HBO series “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty” featured her relationship with Kareem. Actress Sarah Ramos played Cheryl in the show, bringing her story to a wider audience.
Conclusion
Cheryl Pistono’s life story is one of quiet strength, spiritual depth, and independence. From her humble beginnings in Illinois to her influential relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Cheryl has stayed true to herself. She chose personal growth over public attention and family over fame.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long were Cheryl Pistono and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar together?
Cheryl Pistono and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar were in a relationship for about seven to eight years, from 1977 to 1985. Their relationship was based on shared intellectual and spiritual interests, particularly Buddhism.
2. Did Cheryl Pistono and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar get married?
No, Cheryl Pistono and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar never married. Although they had a long relationship and a son together, they chose not to marry. They separated in 1985 but maintained a good relationship as co-parents.
3. How many children does Cheryl Pistono have?
Cheryl Pistono has four children in total. She has one son, Amir Abdul-Jabbar, with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, born in 1980. With her husband Steven Jenkins, she has three more children: Jesse, Taaj, and Brianna Jenkins.
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