How Old Is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar? Exploring The Life And Legacy Of A Basketball Legend

Rocky Waters 14 May 2025

**Ever wondered how old is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar? Well, you're about to dive into the life of one of basketball's all-time greats**. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar isn't just a name; he's a legend, a cultural icon, and a man who redefined what it means to be a professional athlete. With a career that spans decades, his influence extends far beyond the basketball court. This article isn’t just about his age—it’s about the man, his achievements, and the impact he’s had on the world. So, buckle up and get ready to learn something new about this incredible figure.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is more than just a basketball player. He’s a scholar, an activist, and a storyteller. His journey from a young kid named Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr. to becoming one of the most celebrated athletes in history is nothing short of inspiring. Whether you're a basketball fan or just curious about his life, this article will give you a deeper understanding of who Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is and why he matters.

Before we dive into the details, let’s set the stage. Kareem wasn’t born Kareem Abdul-Jabbar—he adopted that name later in life. His original name, Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr., reflects his roots and early life in New York City. Understanding his background helps paint a clearer picture of the man he became. So, without further ado, let’s explore how old Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is and what makes him such an enduring figure in sports history.

Biography: Who is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar?

Early Life and Background

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was born as Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr. on April 16, 1947, in New York City. Growing up in Harlem, Kareem’s early years were filled with challenges and opportunities. He attended Power Memorial Academy, where he began to develop his basketball skills under the guidance of Coach Jack Donohue. It was during this time that Kareem started to make waves in the basketball world, showcasing his unique talent and work ethic.

Here’s a quick look at some key facts about Kareem’s early life:

Born on April 16, 1947, in New York City
Original name: Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr.
Attended Power Memorial Academy
Started playing basketball at a young age

Data and Biodata

For those who love facts and figures, here’s a table summarizing some key aspects of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s life:

Full Name	Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (formerly Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr.)
Date of Birth	April 16, 1947
Place of Birth	New York City, USA
Height	7 ft 2 in (218 cm)
Position	Center
NBA Teams	Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks

How Old is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar?

Alright, let’s get to the point. As of 2023, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is 76 years old. Born on April 16, 1947, Kareem has lived a long and fulfilling life, both on and off the court. His age is a testament to his enduring legacy and the impact he continues to have on the world. But age is just a number, right? Kareem’s contributions to basketball and society go far beyond his years.

His Journey in Basketball

College Years: The Beginning of a Legend

Kareem’s college career at UCLA under Coach John Wooden was nothing short of spectacular. He led the Bruins to three consecutive NCAA championships and was named the NCAA Tournament MVP all three years. His dominance on the court was unmatched, and it was during this time that he began to refine his iconic skyhook shot.

Here’s a quick rundown of his college achievements:

Three-time NCAA champion
Three-time NCAA Tournament MVP
Two-time All-American

NBA Career: The Rise to Greatness

Kareem’s NBA career began in 1969 when he was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks. Over the next two decades, he became one of the most dominant players in league history. With six NBA championships and six MVP awards, Kareem’s legacy is secure. His skyhook shot remains one of the most effective moves in basketball history.

Key stats from his NBA career:

38,387 points (NBA all-time scoring leader)
17,440 rebounds
3,189 blocks

Kareem’s Impact Beyond Basketball

An Activist and Scholar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar isn’t just a basketball legend; he’s also a passionate advocate for social justice and education. Throughout his life, he’s used his platform to speak out on issues ranging from racial inequality to education reform. His book "Black Profiles in Courage" is a testament to his commitment to highlighting the contributions of African Americans throughout history.

Some of his notable achievements outside of basketball include:

Author of several books
Recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Advocate for social justice and education

Fun Facts About Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Did You Know?

Here are some fun facts about Kareem Abdul-Jabbar that you might not know:

He was a martial artist and even appeared in the movie "Game of Death" with Bruce Lee.
Kareem speaks multiple languages, including Arabic, French, and Swahili.
He was a member of the Harlem Globetrotters during the summer of 1962.

How Has Kareem Influenced Modern Basketball?

The Skyhook Legacy

Kareem’s skyhook shot remains one of the most effective and iconic moves in basketball history. Players like Dirk Nowitzki have cited Kareem as an influence on their own game. The skyhook’s effectiveness lies in its versatility and difficulty to block, making it a go-to move for players who want to dominate in the paint.

Key takeaways about the skyhook:

Unblockable and versatile
Influenced modern players
Key to Kareem’s success

Challenges and Triumphs

Overcoming Adversity

Kareem’s life hasn’t been without its challenges. From facing racism early in his career to battling illness later in life, he’s shown incredible resilience and determination. His ability to overcome these obstacles has only added to his legend and inspired countless others to do the same.

Some of the challenges Kareem faced include:

Racial discrimination
Battling cancer
Dealing with public scrutiny

Looking to the Future

Kareem’s Legacy

As Kareem Abdul-Jabbar enters his late 70s, his legacy continues to grow. He remains an active voice in the world of sports and beyond, using his platform to inspire and educate. Whether it’s through his writing, activism, or public appearances, Kareem’s influence is felt far and wide.

Key points about Kareem’s legacy:

Inspiring future generations
Continuing to advocate for social justice
Writing and speaking about important issues

Final Thoughts

So, how old is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar? As of 2023, he’s 76 years old, but his impact on the world is timeless. From his dominance on the basketball court to his contributions to society, Kareem has left an indelible mark on history. His story is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose, and it continues to inspire people around the globe.

As you reflect on Kareem’s life and legacy, take a moment to appreciate the lessons he’s taught us. Whether it’s about hard work, resilience, or standing up for what’s right, Kareem’s story is a reminder that greatness isn’t just about talent—it’s about character.

Now it’s your turn! Leave a comment below and let us know what you think about Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Share this article with your friends and family, and don’t forget to check out our other articles for more fascinating insights into the world of sports and beyond.