Cheryl Pistono is a name that may not be widely recognized outside of certain circles, but her story offers a glimpse into personal transformation, navigating relationships with prominent public figures, and maintaining a private life amidst the scrutiny of fame. As the former partner of NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Cheryl carved a unique path for herself, balancing motherhood, personal growth, and professional endeavors, all while maintaining a sense of privacy and groundedness despite the public attention.
Early Life and Background
Born on September 9, 1956, in LaSalle, Illinois, Cheryl Pistono grew up in a small town where her working-class family instilled in her the importance of hard work, responsibility, and family values. Her parents, John Joseph Pistono Jr. and Sylvia Ann Waclaw, raised her with a strong sense of ethics and the importance of creating strong family bonds. Growing up in LaSalle, Cheryl was aware of the limitations of small-town life and yearned for new experiences and opportunities. At 16, she made the bold decision to leave her hometown, seeking a new path on the West Coast.
This decision marked the beginning of a significant transformation in Cheryl’s life. It was during her time on the West Coast that she encountered new cultural and educational opportunities that would shape her worldview. Cheryl also discovered Buddhism during this period, which would go on to play a crucial role in her personal development. Buddhism’s teachings on mindfulness, balance, and inner peace provided Cheryl with the tools to navigate life’s challenges, helping her stay grounded amid the complexities of her later relationships and career.
A New Life in California
Cheryl’s move to California represented more than just a geographical relocation; it was the beginning of her personal reinvention. While in California, she began to explore new professional avenues, including roles in nursing, legal offices, and accounting. These professions provided her with a stable foundation and a means of personal independence while raising her family.
Her life would change forever when she met NBA star Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the late 1970s. At the time, Abdul-Jabbar was already a prominent figure in the sports world, known not only for his basketball prowess but also for his intellectual and cultural contributions. Despite the challenges of being in a relationship with someone constantly in the public eye, Cheryl and Kareem formed a deep and meaningful connection, leading to the birth of their son, Amir, in 1980.
Life with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Cheryl Pistono’s relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is often overshadowed by his illustrious career, but it played an important role in both their lives. Their relationship began in 1977, during one of the peak moments of Kareem’s basketball career. Cheryl, at the time, was not only drawn to Kareem’s fame but also to his intellect and views on social justice. The couple’s relationship was marked by mutual respect, shared interests, and an unwavering commitment to their family.
Their son, Amir, was born in 1980, and Cheryl dedicated much of her time to raising him, balancing motherhood with her professional pursuits. Nonetheless, their relationship faced its fair share of obstacles. Being in a high-profile relationship with a global superstar meant living under constant media scrutiny. Despite this pressure, Cheryl and Kareem managed to maintain a strong bond for several years. However, in 1985, they decided to part ways, ending their romantic relationship but continuing to co-parent their son Amir.
A New Chapter with Steven Jenkins
Following her breakup with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Cheryl Pistono found love once again, this time with Steven Jenkins. The couple married, and together they raised three children: Jesse, Taaj, and Brianna Jenkins. Cheryl’s new chapter in life with Steven was marked by a desire to live a more private and stable life, away from the media spotlight. Cheryl focused on her family, providing her children with the stability they needed while continuing to pursue her personal and professional interests.
Steven Jenkins, like Cheryl, preferred a low-profile life, away from the public’s gaze. Not much is known about his professional endeavors, as the family has prioritized privacy over the years. Nonetheless, the couple’s commitment to raising a family and maintaining normalcy in their household has been central to Cheryl’s life since their marriage.
Personal Beliefs and Philosophy
One of the most defining aspects of Cheryl Pistono’s life is her dedication to personal growth and her commitment to Buddhism. Having discovered the practice during her time on the West Coast, Cheryl’s beliefs in mindfulness, compassion, and balance have guided her throughout her life. Buddhism has provided Cheryl with the tools to remain grounded amid the pressures of raising a family, maintaining relationships with high-profile figures, and navigating the ups and downs of life.
In addition to her work in nursing and legal fields, Cheryl’s spiritual practice has also influenced her approach to motherhood. She instilled in her children the importance of compassion, education, and finding balance in life, lessons that they have carried with them into adulthood.
Cheryl’s Children: A Legacy of Education and Independence
Cheryl Pistono’s children are a testament to her dedication to family and her role as a mother. Her son, Amir Abdul-Jabbar, is a product of her relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. As an adult, Amir has continued the family legacy in his own way, forging a career outside the shadow of his father’s fame. Cheryl’s three children with Steven Jenkins — Jesse, Taaj, and Brianna — have each followed their paths in life, with Cheryl ensuring they had the support and guidance needed to achieve their goals.
Through her children, Cheryl has passed down her values of education, independence, and the importance of following one’s heart. Her efforts in raising them, alongside her husband Steven, have created a family unit grounded in love and mutual respect.
Cheryl Pistono Today
As of 2023, Cheryl Pistono is 66 years old and continues to live in Los Angeles, California. She remains an active figure in her community, particularly through her practice of Buddhism and her involvement in various charitable causes. Though she maintains a relatively low profile compared to her former partner Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Cheryl has established herself as a strong, independent woman, balancing her personal interests with her role as a mother and a community member.
Cheryl’s social media presence, including her Instagram accounts (@majordomo33, @pistonochery), gives a glimpse into her life, where she continues to share her interests and thoughts on various topics. While she has largely stayed out of the public eye, her posts reflect a woman who remains dedicated to personal growth and maintaining a grounded perspective on life.
Legacy and Influence
Cheryl Pistono’s life is a reflection of personal transformation, navigating relationships with public figures, and striving for balance and fulfillment. Her journey from a small-town girl in Illinois to a mother, partner, and spiritual seeker offers valuable insights into resilience, personal growth, and the importance of family.
While her name may not be as widely recognized as that of her former partner Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Cheryl has made a lasting impact on those who know her. Through her dedication to family, her commitment to Buddhism, and her pursuit of personal fulfillment, Cheryl Pistono has carved out a unique path that continues to inspire those around her. Whether through her children, her professional endeavors, or her personal journey, Cheryl’s legacy is one of strength, independence, and love.
Conclusion
Cheryl Pistono’s life story is one of resilience, personal transformation, and the pursuit of balance. From her early years in LaSalle, Illinois, to her move to California, she embraced new opportunities, both professionally and spiritually. Her relationship with NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, followed by her marriage to Steven Jenkins, shaped her family life and career. Through it all, Cheryl remained steadfast in her commitment to family, education, and self-growth, ensuring that her children received the love and guidance they needed to thrive.
Today, Cheryl continues to live a life marked by quiet strength and spiritual fulfillment. While she may not seek the spotlight, her influence on those closest to her is undeniable. By balancing motherhood, her career, and her personal beliefs, Cheryl has carved out a meaningful and impactful legacy. Her journey serves as a reminder that success isn’t always defined by fame but by the depth of the relationships we build and the personal growth we strive for.
