Cheryl Pistono is known for her long and powerful relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, one of the greatest names in NBA history. Their story began in Los Angeles in the late 1970s, where they formed a deep emotional bond and created a life that shaped both of them. This article explains her early life, her time with Kareem, her family, her influence on him, and how she built her own path. It also answers many search questions linked to secondary topics like Craig Coyne, his net worth, and his personal life.
Quick Bio of Cheryl Pistono
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cheryl Pistono |
| Also Known As | Cheryl Pistono Jenkins |
| Birth Year | 1956 |
| Birthplace | LaSalle, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion / Beliefs | Buddhism |
| Famous For | Partner of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar |
| Child With Kareem | Amir Abdul-Jabbar, orthopedic surgeon |
| Later Spouse | Steven Jenkins |
| Other Children | Jesse, Taaj, Brianna Jenkins |
| Main Residence | Los Angeles, California |
| Known Traits | Independent, spiritual, strong-minded |
| Estimated Net Worth | Around $400,000–$1 million (approximate) |
Early Life and Background
Cheryl Pistono was born in LaSalle, Illinois in 1956. She grew up in a working family with strong values. She was the oldest of five children. Life was simple, but she always wanted something more. At around 16, she left her hometown and moved to the West Coast.
This bold step showed her strong and independent nature. She lived with relatives first and then built her own life. She later finished school and spent time studying at UCLA.
In California, she discovered a new world. The busy city life, the beaches, and the people all shaped her new identity. She also discovered Buddhism, which later became an important part of her life. This spiritual path helped her grow calmer, wiser, and more centered.
Meeting Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
The story of Cheryl Pistono and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar started around 1977 in Los Angeles. At that time, Kareem was already a major NBA star, but Cheryl did not know much about basketball. She did not react to him like many others did.
This made her stand out. She was honest, clear, and did not try to impress him. Kareem saw something different in her. Their early talks were deep and kind. They slowly built a close friendship that turned into love.
At that time, Kareem was still legally married to Habiba Abdul-Jabbar, but they had lived apart for years. With Cheryl’s influence, he later completed the legal divorce. She wanted him to face his life with honesty and stability.
A Strong Influence on Kareem
Cheryl Pistono had a great emotional influence on Kareem. She helped him open up, speak more freely, and become a stronger leader on and off the court.
Many people around them could see her impact. She encouraged him to listen more, trust himself, and take control of his personal life. She helped him connect with his emotions and remove old fears.
Her calm and thoughtful nature made Kareem feel safe. Their talks about Buddhism, family, and life helped him grow as a man. She also gave him confidence during stressful years of fame and media pressure.
Their Son, Amir Abdul-Jabbar
In 1980, Cheryl Pistono and Kareem welcomed their son Amir Abdul-Jabbar. Amir grew up in a loving but private environment. He later studied medicine at UCSF and became an orthopedic surgeon.
Both Cheryl and Kareem stayed close to him, even after they ended their relationship. They agreed to co-parent with respect and peace.
Cheryl often said she wanted harmony for her son. This made her keep a stable friendship with Kareem. They did not bring up old problems. They wanted a quiet and healthy life for their child.
End of Their Relationship
Around 1984, Cheryl Pistono and Kareem ended their romantic relationship. They did not speak much in public about the reason. They simply moved in different life directions.
But they stayed connected because of Amir. Their promise to remain calm and respectful helped their son grow in a stable home.
Cheryl later built her own family life. In 1985, she married Steven Jenkins and became Cheryl Pistono Jenkins. They had three more children named Jesse, Taaj, and Brianna.
Her Role in Kareem’s Financial Struggles
In the late 1980s, Kareem faced financial problems linked to his business manager Tom Collins. During the lawsuit, Cheryl Pistono spoke out. She said she had always been careful and asked questions about Kareem’s finances.
Her comments showed that she truly cared for Kareem’s security. She believed there had been dishonesty around his money. She had warned him years earlier, but he did not act soon enough.
These events showed her strength and her ability to protect people she loved. She was direct, clear, and not afraid to speak the truth.
Life After Kareem
After leaving the spotlight of the NBA world, Cheryl Pistono lived a quieter life in Los Angeles. She worked in law-related offices, accounting, and later in health-related fields. Some reports say she also trained in nursing.
She focused on raising her children and keeping her spiritual life strong.
She also stayed connected to Buddhism, which gave her balance. Cheryl enjoyed simple activities like cooking, fishing, and spending time with animals.
Her estimated net worth today is between $400,000 and $1 million, but she keeps her life private.
Cheryl Pistono in TV and Pop Culture
The HBO series “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty” brought Cheryl Pistono back into the spotlight.
Actress Sarah Ramos plays her role. The show presents Cheryl as a smart, strong, and calm partner who helped Kareem find emotional balance. Many viewers began searching her name again to learn her real story.
Old photos from the 1980s show Cheryl and Kareem together at events, games, and public gatherings. They were an important couple during the golden era of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Who Is Craig Coyne?
Craig Coyne is an American actor, writer, and director. He is widely known as the husband of Barbara Pierce Bush, the daughter of former President George W. Bush.
He was born in 1982 and grew up in Georgia. He studied at Vanderbilt University and later entered the film world.
Craig Coyne Movies and Career
Craig has played roles in films like “Jarhead”, “I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell”, and “Unlovable.”
He has also written and created shows such as “Ask Play” on Funny or Die.
Today, he continues working on screenwriting and independent film projects.
Craig Coyne Net Worth
His estimated net worth is around $1.5–2 million. Searches like “Craig Coyne net worth 2020”, “biography Craig Coyne net worth”, and “worth age Craig Coyne net worth” point to similar ranges.
Craig Coyne and Barbara Bush
Craig married Barbara Bush in 2018. They now have two children:
- Cora Georgia Coyne (born 2021)
- Edward Finn Coyne (born 2024)
He has never been married before. This answers the question: “Has Craig Coyne been married before?” – No, Barbara is his first wife.
Craig Coyne Height and Other Facts
Biography sites list him between 5’9″ and 6’0″.
He is Christian, according to some sources, answering the question “Craig Coyne religion.”
The names “Craig Coyne Hilton Head” and “Smyers Craig Coyne” refer to different people with similar names, not the actor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Cheryl Pistono?
Cheryl Pistono is best known as the long-time partner of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and the mother of his son Amir Abdul-Jabbar.
2. Was Cheryl Pistono married to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar?
No, Cheryl Pistono and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar were never married. They were partners for several years but did not wed.
3. How did Cheryl Pistono influence Kareem Abdul-Jabbar?
Cheryl Pistono helped Kareem open up emotionally, face his personal life honestly, and even pushed him to finalize his earlier divorce.
4. How many children does Cheryl Pistono have?
Cheryl Pistono has four children: Amir Abdul-Jabbar with Kareem and three more children with her later husband Steven Jenkins.
5. Where does Cheryl Pistono live now?
Most reports say Cheryl Pistono lives in Los Angeles, California, where she leads a private life and works as a self-employed professional.
Why Cheryl Pistono Still Matters Today
The story of Cheryl Pistono continues to interest readers because she was more than a partner of a famous athlete. She was a strong and wise woman who helped Kareem Abdul-Jabbar shape his inner world.
She lived with honesty, courage, and spiritual peace. Her life shows how one person can influence a global star not through fame, but through kindness and strength.
Even today, fans search her name to learn how she changed Kareem’s life and built her own story.
Through her son Amir, through her quiet work life, and through her place in NBA history, Cheryl Pistono remains a memorable figure.
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