Kareem Abdul-Jabbar built a legacy and made a fortune playing in the NBA. He understands that the younger generation yearns to achieve the same level of fame and success, but he also wants to enlighten them that education could take them even further.
Through his 2012 children’s book, “What Color is My World? The Lost History of African-American Inventors,” Kareem reminds kids about the importance of education. Admittedly, the NBA Hall of Famer was prompted to step up and do something after noticing how famous athletes and celebrities enormously influence the youth.
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With that in mind, Abdul-Jabbar believes that parents should play a bigger role in molding their kids while they are still malleable. He encourages parents to teach their kids that life isn’t just about glitz and glamor.
“Too many young men want to be the next LeBron James or Jay-Z,” Abdul-Jabbar told SLAM. “There’s too much of that, so for these kids at an early age, it’s important for them to learn about scientists, engineers, chemists and mathematicians—how they did something significant.”
“If we could get kids to read my books, and in some instances parents, they could be made aware of something in terms of how valuable education is,” he pointed out. “If you can get there and their interests when they’re still in grade school, it makes a big difference.”
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“Knowledge is forever”
Despite thriving in his basketball career, Abdul-Jabbar managed to finish school. He graduated from UCLA with a bachelor’s degree in history in 1969. As someone who had been there and done that, “Cap” serves as living proof that it’s possible to succeed in any endeavor while also being well-educated.
Abdul-Jabbar credited the legendary UCLA coach John Wooden for planting that mindset in him early on. Even though Kareem was arguably the best college player in the country at the time, Wooden made him realize that his basketball skills would soon fade. In contrast, his knowledge would still remain.
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From then on, Abdul-Jabbar developed a deeper appreciation for education. Today, he utilizes his platform to pass on what he learned from Coach Wooden.
“He gave me a long look through his nerdy black-frame glasses. “I’m impressed with your grades, Lewis,” he finally said. Really? He wanted to talk about grades? He looked me straight in the eyes to make sure I knew he was serious. “For most students, basketball is temporary. But knowledge is forever.” “Yes, sir,” I said. “You can only play basketball for so long, then you’ve got to get on with the rest of your life.” I nodded,” Kareem once revealed.
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Kareem is more than just a basketball legend
Judging by Abdul-Jabbar’s career, it’s safe to say that he really practiced what he preached. Kareem didn’t stop learning even when he was at the pinnacle of success as an NBA player.
He constantly educated himself, and his wealth of knowledge opened the doors for his post-NBA retirement careers. With his history degree, Abdul-Jabbar authored and co-authored several books. Moreover, he also became known as one of the most prominent social activists in the country.
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At present, Abdul-Jabbar is not just relevant in sports. He has broken into different spaces and is revered by many for his brilliance and commitment to impacting society, especially kids who could learn a thing or two about being successful in any field like Kareem.
This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Sep 13, 2025, where it first appeared in the Off The Court section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
