Cheryl Pistono? All You Need to Know About Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Ex-Girlfriend

Cheryl Pistono may not be a widely recognized name, but her relationship with NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the late 1970s and early 1980s has left an enduring impact. A quieter, more private figure, Cheryl’s influence on one of the greatest basketball players of all time is undeniable. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Cheryl’s life, her connection with Kareem, and where she is now, shedding light on the lesser-known but fascinating story of a woman whose role in Kareem’s life went far beyond romance.

Early Life and Education

Cheryl Pistono was born on September 6, 1956, in LaSalle, Illinois. Her roots were humble, growing up in a small town with a tight-knit community. Cheryl was a bright and introspective young woman, attending LaSalle-Peru High School before heading to UCLA for higher education. During her time at UCLA, Cheryl developed an interest in intellectual pursuits and spirituality—interests that would shape much of her later life.

While details about her early years remain largely private, what we do know is that Cheryl’s educational background laid the foundation for her intellectual and spiritual growth. This included embracing Buddhism, a philosophy that would later influence her relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

The Relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Cheryl Pistono’s name is most commonly associated with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the NBA legend widely considered one of the greatest players in basketball history. Their romantic relationship began in the late 1970s, a time when Kareem was dominating the basketball world as a star for the Los Angeles Lakers. Although their connection was not as publicized as some of the other high-profile relationships in sports, Cheryl’s influence on Kareem extended far beyond the court.

During their seven-year relationship, Cheryl was not just a romantic partner but also a spiritual guide and confidante. She encouraged Kareem to explore different perspectives, particularly through his interest in Eastern philosophies and Buddhism, which aligned with her own practices. Cheryl’s influence on Kareem helped him grow beyond the basketball world, encouraging him to be introspective and more aware of the larger world around him.

Her connection with Kareem was an important part of his life off the court, providing him with a sense of stability and personal growth during his career’s peak. Though they shared a significant bond, the relationship ended in 1985.

Parenting and Family Life

Cheryl and Kareem’s relationship produced a son, Amir Abdul-Jabbar, born in 1984. Although Cheryl and Kareem separated just a year after Amir’s birth, they both remained committed to co-parenting their son, ensuring that Amir had the support and love of both parents despite their separation.

Though their family life was kept relatively private, it’s clear that Cheryl and Kareem prioritized Amir’s well-being above all else. Amir, who is now an adult, has kept a low profile and has largely stayed out of the public eye, much like his mother.

Life After Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

After her breakup with Kareem, Cheryl Pistono moved on with her life and married Steven Jenkins. The couple settled in Los Angeles, where Cheryl continues to reside today. 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.

Cheryl’s decision to remain private is in stark contrast to the fame and attention that often follows the partners of celebrities, particularly athletes. Cheryl has shown no interest in leveraging her connection with Kareem for fame or attention, and instead, she has focused on her personal and professional growth.

Cheryl Pistono’s Spirituality and Influence

A key aspect of Cheryl’s life has been her deep commitment to spirituality. She practices Buddhism and has been described as someone who values self-reflection, mindfulness, and personal growth. Her spiritual practices not only shaped her life but also had a profound impact on Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Kareem’s interest in Eastern philosophies, which he often discussed during his playing days, was, in part, inspired by his relationship with Cheryl. She introduced him to these practices, and many believe that her encouragement helped him develop a more thoughtful and introspective outlook on life. Cheryl’s spiritual guidance was integral to his transformation from a basketball star to a well-rounded individual, seeking meaning and purpose beyond the game.

Cheryl Pistono in Popular CultureV

Cheryl Pistono’s relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was given a cultural spotlight years after their separation. In 2022, she was portrayed by actress Sarah Ramos in the HBO series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty. The show, which dramatizes the history of the Los Angeles Lakers, offers a fictionalized portrayal of Cheryl’s relationship with Kareem, capturing a glimpse of their time together. While the series takes creative liberties, it provides viewers with a sense of the dynamics between Cheryl and Kareem during their time together, helping bring their story to life for a new audience.

Where Is Cheryl Pistono Now?

Today, Cheryl Pistono lives a quiet life in Los Angeles. After years of keeping a low profile, she has continued to maintain her privacy. She’s self-employed and, according to those close to her, is living a life that prioritizes her personal and spiritual well-being.

Cheryl’s life is vastly different from the days she spent with Kareem in the public eye. While she has not sought the spotlight, her influence on Kareem’s life and career remains evident. Her legacy is not built on fame or attention but on the impact she made on the person she shared part of her life with.

Conclusion

Cheryl Pistono’s relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is a significant chapter in the NBA legend’s life, one that helped shape his personal journey and spiritual outlook. While she has remained largely out of the public eye in recent years, Cheryl’s influence is still felt, both through her impact on Kareem’s life and her choice to prioritize a quiet, independent lifestyle. Whether it’s her intellectual curiosity, spiritual guidance, or her role as a mother, Cheryl’s story offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of someone who quietly impacted one of the most famous figures in basketball history

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is Cheryl Pistono? Cheryl Pistono is an American woman best known for her seven-year relationship with NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. They have a son together, Amir Abdul-Jabbar.
2. When was Cheryl Pistono born? Cheryl Pistono was born on September 6, 1956, in LaSalle, Illinois, USA.
3. Does Cheryl Pistono have any children? Yes, Cheryl Pistono has one child, Amir Abdul-Jabbar, born in 1984.
4. What is Cheryl Pistono’s relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar? Cheryl Pistono and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar were in a long-term relationship from the late 1970s to 1985. They share a son and were an important part of each other’s lives during that time.
5. Is Cheryl Pistono married? Yes, after her breakup with Kareem, Cheryl married Steven Jenkins.
6. Where does Cheryl Pistono live now? Cheryl Pistono currently resides in Los Angeles, California.
7. What does Cheryl Pistono do for a living? Cheryl Pistono is self-employed, but she has kept the details of her professional life private.
8. What is Cheryl Pistono’s religion? Cheryl Pistono practices Buddhism and values personal growth and mindfulness.
9. Has Cheryl Pistono been in the media recently? Cheryl has maintained a low public profile but was portrayed in the 2022 HBO series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty.
10. What was Cheryl Pistono’s influence on Kareem Abdul-Jabbar? Cheryl helped Kareem explore Eastern philosophies and encouraged him to embrace different viewpoints, which had a lasting impact on his personal growth.

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