The phrase “age ain’t nothing but a number” has transcended generations because of how profound it is in empowering the next generation. For Dallas Cowboys’ girlfriend Kalani Bagsby, she embodies this through her self-confidence for the path she’s on and the decisions she’s making. As one of the youngest WAGs in the NFL, Kalani has made a name for herself after taking hold of the negative comments she was receiving from fans and social media users on her weight as a plus-sized woman.
She initially began dating her now boyfriend, Tyler Booker, when they were both freshmen at the University of Alabama. Fast forward to today, and they can now be seen enjoying their newfound journey together with their relationship put on full display for the world to watch. While they’ve managed to maintain rapport in their relationship, they’ve still been met with adversity. Kalani has especially been met with adversity after having to be put under the stereotypes that many WAGS face. “I feel like a lot of people just think WAGS sit up under their significant other and don’t do anything for themselves, and that is so far from the truth. For me, I still have my own life. I still work. I’m still going back to school. I do what I want for myself, I’m not just sitting up under my significant other,” Bagsby expressed when speaking more on what she feels are misconceptions by those not a part of WAG and NFL culture. She continued by explaining more about her struggles of having to navigate not only assumptions about her because of her age, but also because of her weight.
“Of course, because I’m a plus-size girl, it’s been a lot of hate comments about my size since the draft started. […] if I’m just gonna be honest, I really don’t care because I’m just like ‘okay, at this point, you’re just saying stuff to make yourself feel better,” Bagsby told GU when sharing her perspective on receiving online hate. Being thrust into the spotlight so quickly for anyone can be a tough feat. Luckily for Kalani, she was able to hone in on her Southern roots and family support to carry her through the success of her journey thus far. “I would definitely say growing up as a southern girl, my grandma has taught me to be very strong, and my mom as well. Really, my whole family has always taught don’t worry about what people say. It doesn’t matter what they say about you. Be true to yourself, don’t change for nobody, we love you,” Bagsby reflected as she shared the heartfelt memories of her family.
This advice surrounding her staying true to herself and not changing for anyone has been what’s kept her anchored during the adjustment to being in the limelight. This has also been what’s motivated her to blaze her own trail as a plus-size WAG and representation in the industry in general. “Don’t be scared to wear what you want to wear because as you can see, I have some skirts that are a lot shorter that show my legs or my arms are out. I feel like you shouldn’t be scared to show that off, it’s nothing wrong with that. It’s nothing wrong with having a little bit more meat on your bones,” Bagsby affirmed when speaking about her mindset by inspiring other women to feel confident.
This confidence is what’s led her to showcase custom game day looks, realistic routines when doing her hair or makeup to give supporters an inside look into her life. This has also propelled her towards ignoring the haters by continuing to post and be proud of being a WAG, versus moving from a place of fear and anxiety. In her personal life, Kalani is still managing aspirations of continuing her education and working her job. She’s also received extensive support from other WAGs in the league, specifically with the Dallas Cowboys. “All of the wives and girlfriends here are very supportive, very sweet. I’ve connected with really everyone, and I haven’t had a weird experience yet. Thank God,”
Kalani has also gained notoriety for her clothing line, First and Fine by Kalani. The company exclusively caters to her creative edge by showcasing her talents in creating custom game apparel. Kalani is accompanied in her WAG journey by fellow Gen-Z WAG, Dillensia Glebourn, whose boyfriend, Jaydon Blue, running back for the Dallas Cowboys.
To see more of Kalani’s journey and learn more about her clothing venture, you can follow her on Instagram or TikTok.