Overview

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, born Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr., is a retired American professional basketball player widely regarded as one of the greatest in the history of the sport. Standing 7 feet 2 inches tall, he played 20 seasons in the NBA for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Lakers. Known for his unstoppable skyhook shot, Abdul-Jabbar was a dominant force in the league, excelling as a center. He won six NBA championships (one with the Bucks in 1971 and five with the Lakers in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988) and was named NBA Finals MVP twice.

Abdul-Jabbar is the all-time leading scorer in NBA history, amassing 38,387 points. He was a 19-time NBA All-Star, a 15-time All-NBA Team member, and an 11-time NBA All-Defensive Team member. He also won six NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, the most in league history. Known for his exceptional scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities, Abdul-Jabbar was also a dominant defensive presence.

Beyond his on-court achievements, Abdul-Jabbar has been a cultural icon, known for his activism and contributions to literature and film. He has written several books, served as a cultural ambassador, and advocated for social justice issues. Abdul-Jabbar’s impact on and off the court has made him a revered figure in American sports and culture.

• Six NBA championships (1971, 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988)
• Six-time NBA MVP
• 19-time NBA All-Star
• NBA all-time leading scorer (38,387 points)
• Two-time NBA Finals MVP
• Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1995)
• Presidential Medal of Freedom (2016)