In the male-dominated realm of sports representation, Kelli Masters stands tall as a trailblazer and an inspiration. Born and raised in Oklahoma City, Masters hails from the Cherokee tribe, and her journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a prominent sports lawyer and agent is nothing short of remarkable.
A multi-talented individual, Masters pursued law at the University of Oklahoma while also excelling as a baton twirler and winning the title of Miss Oklahoma in 1997. Her entry into the sports representation field was met with skepticism and discouragement from male colleagues, who questioned her place in the industry. However, Masters persevered, determined to shatter barriers and make a mark.
In 2010, Masters achieved a monumental milestone by representing Gerald McCoy, a defensive tackle from Oklahoma who was drafted as the third overall pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This achievement marked her as the first female NFL agent to represent a top-five draft pick. McCoy's subsequent success on the field, amassing nearly $100 million in earnings and earning six Pro Bowl selections over 11 years, underscored Masters' prowess in talent representation.
Throughout her career, Masters has represented an impressive roster of over 40 active NFL players, along with clients from the MLB, the Olympics, and golf. Her influence extends far beyond player contracts, as she actively encourages athletes to establish charitable organizations, embodying the spirit of giving back to the community.
Masters' determination and unwavering commitment to excellence have made her a prominent figure in the sports business world. She has paved the way for other women hoping to enter this competitive field after being named one of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Sports by Bleacher Report.
In her 2021 autobiographical book, "High Impact Life," Masters candidly shares her experiences, vulnerabilities, and the challenges she faced along her journey. She emphasizes the importance of faith, which has been a guiding force in her career. Masters' faith-driven approach underscores her commitment to integrity and doing things right, even if it means taking the longer, less-traveled path.
Masters serves as an adjunct professor at Oklahoma City and Oklahoma Christian universities, where she imparts her extensive knowledge of sports law to aspiring students. Her lectures cover a range of topics, including sports, nonprofit law, leadership, diversity, and life purpose, reflecting her dedication to empowering the next generation.
Masters' impact extends well beyond the field of play. Her legacy as a groundbreaking sports agent and advocate for women in the industry will continue to inspire and pave the way for generations of aspiring sports professionals. Through her journey, she has not only represented athletes but also represented a powerful force for change and progress in the world of sports representation.