TCS PIM-1 1 (compound 1), a substituted pyridone scaffold, binds convincingly within the ATP-binding site of Pim-1 suggesting an ATP-competitive inhibitory mechanism. Preliminary data further suggests that TCS PIM-1 1 lacked in vitro inhibitory activity toward related serine/threonine kinases Pim-2 and MEK1/2. Hence, small molecules similar to TCS PIM-1 1 may serve as useful starting scaffolds for the development of other improved yet selective Pim-1 inhibitors. TCS PIM-1 1 serves both as a starting point for SAR chemical syntheses and was used for co-crystallization with Pim-1 protein.