Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was an American professional basketball player. He was Born on 16 April 1947 in New York City and spent 20 seasons playing in the National Basketball Association (NBA), primarily with the Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks.
He is one of the most prominent basketball players, with numerous records, awards, and accolades. However, behind every great athlete is a supportive and loving family, and Abdul-Jabbar is no exception.
In this post, we will discuss the life and background of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s parents, Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Sr. and Cora Lillian.
Kareem Abdul Jabbar’s Parents
Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Sr. and Cora Lillian were dedicated parents who worked together to provide their children with a stable and supportive upbringing. They were both firm but fair in their parenting and were always available to offer guidance and support to their children.
Their focus on education and values greatly influenced Abdul-Jabbar, who said that his parents sowed in him a love of learning and a sense of purpose.
He has also credited his parents with teaching him the importance of hard work, perseverance, and determination, which helped him succeed on and off the court.
Abdul-Jabbar has also spoken about the influence that his parents’ commitment to social justice had on him, stating that he learned from a young age the importance of standing up for what is right and fighting for equality.
He has been a vocal advocate for social justice throughout his life, using his platform to raise awareness about racial inequality, police brutality, and poverty.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Father, Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor
Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor was born in New York City on 9 October 1919. He was a police officer with the New York City Police Department, where he worked from 1941-45.
He was known for his strict and disciplined approach to parenting, which he believed was necessary to instill a strong work ethic and a sense of responsibility in his children.
Growing up, Alcindor Sr. experienced discrimination and racism, which shaped his views on social justice and equality.
He strongly advocated for the civil rights movement and was active in his community, promoting equality and fairness for all people. He was also a Jazz Musician.
Ferdinand L. Alcindor, the father of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, passed away on Friday, 9 December 2005, due to organ failure after a prolonged battle with senile dementia.
He was 86 years old. The Los Angeles Lakers confirmed that Abdul-Jabbar serves as a special assistant coach.
In a statement, Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss expressed his condolences to Abdul-Jabbar and his family.
Buss also paid tribute to Ferdinand L. Alcindor, recognizing him not only as the father of one of the greatest Lakers players of all time but also as a man of character, intelligence, and integrity.
The passing of Ferdinand L. Alcindor has undoubtedly been a loss for Abdul-Jabbar and his family, as well as for the Lakers organization and fans who remember him for his contributions.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s Mother, Cora Lillian
Cora Lillian was born in New York City on 5 December 1918. She was a homemaker who raised her children with a focus on education and values.
She imbued in her kids the importance of hard work, perseverance, and respect for others.
Lillian was known for her kindness and compassion and was always willing to help those in need. She was also deeply religious and was a member of the local Baptist church, where she was active in community outreach programs. Cora died on 30 April 1997 at the age of 79.
