Cheryl Pistono is often known because of her past relationship with basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, but her life story extends far beyond that connection. Born and raised in a small town in Illinois, Cheryl’s journey is one of courage, independence, and quiet strength. From leaving home at a young age to build a life on the West Coast, to embracing Buddhism and raising a family, Cheryl has crafted a meaningful path rooted in personal growth and resilience. This article explores the many sides of Cheryl Pistono—from her early life and career to her spiritual beliefs and family—offering a closer look at a woman whose story is both inspiring and deeply human.
Quick Bio
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cheryl Pistono Jenkins |
| Birth Date | September 9, 1956 |
| Birthplace | LaSalle, Illinois, USA |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) |
| Weight | 65 kg |
| Age | 66 (as of 2023) |
| Parents | John Joseph Pistono Jr. and Sylvia Ann Waclaw |
| Siblings | John Pistino, James Pistino, Jeffery Pistino, Kay Boehm |
| Ex-Boyfriend | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar |
| Husband | Steven Jenkins |
| Children | Amir Abdul-Jabbar, Jesse Jenkins, Taaj Jenkins, Brianna Jenkins |
| Net Worth | $400,000 (as of 2023) |
| Education | Continued education in nursing, specific institutions not detailed |
| Career | Nursing, legal, and accounting office roles |
| Social Media | Instagram (@majordomo33 and @pistonochery) |
Early Life and Background
Cheryl Pistono was born on September 9, 1956, in LaSalle, Illinois, a small town that gave her a humble and grounded start in life. Growing up in a working-class family with her parents and siblings, Cheryl learned the importance of hard work, family values, and determination from an early age. Her parents, John Joseph Pistono Jr. and Sylvia Ann Waclaw, raised Cheryl alongside her four siblings—Kay, John, James, and Jeffery—in a close-knit environment that nurtured her sense of responsibility and independence. Life in LaSalle was simple, but Cheryl’s curiosity and ambition pushed her to dream beyond her small hometown.
At just 16 years old, she made a courageous decision to leave home and move to the West Coast, seeking new opportunities and personal growth. This early chapter in Cheryl’s life laid the foundation for her resilience and the strong, independent woman she would become.
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Moving to the West Coast
At just 16 years old, Cheryl made the bold decision to leave her family home and head to the West Coast, seeking new opportunities and personal growth. This move was significant—not only because of her young age but because it demonstrated Cheryl’s courage and determination to create a life on her own terms. The transition from a small Midwestern town to the vast and vibrant West Coast was challenging but also opened doors for Cheryl. It marked the beginning of her journey into adulthood, education, and career development. She embraced the change, fueled by her desire to expand her horizons and discover who she was beyond the world she knew growing up.
How Old Is Cheryl Pistono?
Cheryl Pistono was born on September 9, 1956, which makes her 66 years old as of 2023. She has lived through many important chapters in her life, from growing up in a small town to building a family and career on the West Coast. At 66, Cheryl continues to focus on her family, spirituality, and personal growth, showing that age is just a number when it comes to living a full and meaningful life.
Meeting with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Cheryl Pistono’s relationship with basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar began in 1977, at a time when Kareem was dominating the NBA and becoming a cultural icon. Their connection was more than just romantic; it was deeply rooted in shared intellectual interests and spirituality. Both Cheryl and Kareem practiced Buddhism, and this shared path brought them closer in ways beyond what the public often saw. Their seven-year relationship was private, built on mutual respect and understanding. In 1980, they welcomed their son, Amir Abdul-Jabbar, who added a new dimension to their partnership. Although they decided not to marry and eventually parted ways in 1985, their relationship remained respectful and focused on co-parenting their son with care.
Who Is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar?
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is a famous basketball player known as one of the greatest in NBA history. Born in 1947 in New York City, he played 20 seasons mainly with the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers. Kareem is famous for his unique “skyhook” shot and holds the record as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Beyond basketball, he is also known for his work as an activist and writer, using his voice to support important social causes.
About Cheryl Pistono’s Children
Cheryl Pistono is a mother of four children. She has one son, Amir Abdul-Jabbar, born in 1980, from her relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Later, she married Steven Jenkins, and together they have three children: two daughters named Jesse and Taaj, and a son named Brianna. Cheryl keeps her family life private and focuses on raising her children with love and care.
Cheryl Pistono’s Life After Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
After her relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar ended in the mid-1980s, Cheryl Pistono moved on to build a quiet and stable life away from the public eye. She married Steven Jenkins, and together they have three children, creating a loving family focused on privacy and togetherness. Cheryl settled in Los Angeles, where she has embraced a peaceful lifestyle centered on her family and personal growth. Unlike the more public years with Kareem, Cheryl’s life with Steven is calm and private, showing her desire to keep her family out of the spotlight.
Along with raising her children, Cheryl has continued to pursue her interests in spirituality, particularly Buddhism, which has been an important part of her life philosophy. Her journey after Kareem reflects a strong, independent woman who values family, peace, and personal fulfillment above fame or public attention.
Career and Professional Life
Professionally, Cheryl has led a varied and adaptable career. After her time with Kareem, she continued her education in nursing, a field she found fulfilling and meaningful. Beyond nursing, Cheryl gained experience working in law and accounting offices, demonstrating a wide range of skills and a flexible approach to her work life. Her career path reveals a woman who is not afraid to reinvent herself and take on new challenges. Later in life, Cheryl became self-employed, which allowed her more control over her work and time. Her professional journey underscores her independence and determination to support herself and her family through steady and thoughtful effort.
Spirituality and Philosophy
Buddhism is a central part of Cheryl Pistono’s life and philosophy. Her commitment to mindfulness, compassion, and personal growth has shaped how she approaches every aspect of life. Cheryl embraced Buddhism early, and this spiritual practice became a guiding light through times of change and challenge. She shared this spiritual journey with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, encouraging him to explore Eastern philosophies and develop a deeper sense of self-awareness. For Cheryl, Buddhism is not just a belief system but a way of living with intention and peace. This spiritual foundation has helped her stay grounded and resilient, guiding her decisions in relationships, career, and family.
Public Life and Media Presence
Despite her connection to a famous sports figure, Cheryl has consistently chosen a path of privacy and modesty. She has kept her public profile low, avoiding the spotlight that often follows celebrity partners. On social media, Cheryl maintains a minimal presence, reflecting her preference for a quiet life focused on family and personal well-being. Her story was brought to a wider audience when actress Sarah Ramos portrayed her in the HBO series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, which offered a glimpse into her relationship with Kareem. However, Cheryl herself remains grounded and prefers to live away from media attention, underscoring her values of authenticity and discretion.
Overcoming Challenges
Throughout her life, Cheryl Pistono has faced and overcome many challenges. Leaving home as a teenager, managing the pressures of a high-profile relationship, and building a blended family are experiences that tested her strength and adaptability. Cheryl approached each challenge with resilience, using her spiritual beliefs and personal values to guide her. She has never sought public sympathy or drama but has quietly met adversity with grace. Her story is inspiring because it reflects the power of inner strength and the ability to grow through life’s difficulties, showing that true courage often lies in everyday choices and quiet perseverance.
Legacy and Influence
Cheryl’s impact is not measured by fame or fortune but by the love and wisdom she shares with those around her. Her children, family, and close friends see her as a source of stability, kindness, and inspiration. More than that, Cheryl influenced Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in meaningful ways, encouraging him to look beyond basketball and embrace a broader, more thoughtful life philosophy. This influence continues to resonate in Kareem’s work and public life. Cheryl’s legacy is one of dedication, resilience, and compassion—a reminder that quiet strength can leave a lasting mark on the world.
Net Worth and Financial Status
As of 2023, Cheryl Pistono’s net worth is estimated to be around $400,000. This figure reflects her work in nursing, legal, and accounting roles, combined with personal investments. Unlike many connected to famous figures, Cheryl has not pursued wealth through public fame but has built a modest and stable financial foundation through steady work and wise choices. Her financial independence is consistent with the image of a self-reliant woman who values privacy and personal growth over material display. This financial background supports her lifestyle focused on family, spirituality, and well-being.
Current Life and Where She Is Now
Today, Cheryl Pistono resides in Los Angeles, California, living a quiet and fulfilling life away from the public eye. She remains devoted to her family, spirituality, and personal interests, choosing a peaceful path after years that included public attention. Cheryl’s life now emphasizes balance, mindfulness, and the care of her loved ones. Her story, from a small town in Illinois to a meaningful life in Los Angeles, reflects the journey of a woman who has navigated love, motherhood, career, and personal growth with courage and grace. Cheryl Pistono continues to inspire by living authentically and focusing on what truly matters.
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Conclusion
Cheryl Pistono’s life story is one of quiet strength, resilience, and personal growth. While many know her because of her relationship with basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Cheryl’s journey goes much deeper. From her small-town roots to building a loving family and embracing a spiritual path, she has created a life full of meaning and purpose. Cheryl’s commitment to her family, her career, and her beliefs shows a woman who has always lived with integrity and grace. Her story reminds us that true success comes from inner peace and the love we share, not just from public recognition or fame. Today, Cheryl continues to live a private and peaceful life, inspiring others through her example of courage, kindness, and quiet resilience.
FAQs About Cheryl Pistono
1. Who is Cheryl Pistono?
Cheryl Pistono is best known for her past relationship with NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. She is also a mother, businesswoman, and practicing Buddhist.
2. When was Cheryl Pistono born?
She was born on September 9, 1956, in LaSalle, Illinois.
3. How long was Cheryl Pistono with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar?
Cheryl and Kareem were in a relationship for about seven years, from 1977 to 1984.
4. Does Cheryl Pistono have children?
Yes, Cheryl has four children, including Amir Abdul-Jabbar with Kareem, and three more with her husband Steven Jenkins.
5. What does Cheryl Pistono do for a living?
Cheryl has worked in nursing, legal, and accounting fields, showing a versatile professional background.
6. Where does Cheryl Pistono live now?
She currently lives a private life in Los Angeles, California.
7. What is Cheryl Pistono’s spiritual belief?
Cheryl practices Buddhism and values mindfulness and compassion in her daily life.
