• October 5, 2025

Yanni Hufnagel: From Basketball Coach to Lemon Water Entrepreneur

Y LemonYanni Hufnagel is a former college basketball coach turned entrepreneur who has made a name for himself in the beverage industry with his brand, Lemon Perfect. The company, which produces a line of refreshing, organic, cold-pressed lemon water drinks, has garnered attention and investment from high-profile figures like Beyoncé.

Hufnagel’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2017 when he left his job as an assistant coach for the University of Nevada basketball team to focus on building Lemon Perfect. He drew on his experience as an athlete and coach to create a beverage that could help people stay hydrated and healthy. The result was a drink that combines the natural health benefits of lemon water with delicious, thirst-quenching flavors like blueberry acai and dragon fruit mango.

Since launching, Lemon Perfect has gained a loyal following and expanded into major retailers like Whole Foods, Walmart, and Kroger. The brand also received multiple funding rounds, including a $6.6 million Series A in 2019. With a mission to inspire people to live healthier and more vibrant lives, Hufnagel and his team are committed to creating a product that tastes great and supports overall wellness.

Hufnagel’s success with Lemon Perfect resulted from his hard work, perseverance, and dedication to creating a product that fills a gap in the market. His background as a coach has also given him the skills and mindset necessary to succeed in the highly competitive beverage industry.

In an interview with The Boss Magazine, Hufnagel emphasized the importance of staying focused and true to one’s values. He said, “The toughest part is staying true to yourself and your vision, even when the noise gets louder and louder. That’s where the conviction comes in. If you believe in your actions, you can drown out the noise and focus on what matters most.”

Hufnagel’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. His passion for creating a product that promotes health and wellness has not only earned him success but has also positively impacted the lives of many.

As Lemon Perfect continues to grow and expand its reach, Hufnagel’s legacy as a basketball coach may be overshadowed by his success as an entrepreneur. But regardless of his career path, his dedication to excellence and commitment to helping others achieve their best remain at the core of his identity.

Yanni In conclusion, Yanni Hufnagel’s journey from basketball coach to lemon water entrepreneur is a story of determination, resilience, and passion. Through his brand, Lemon Perfect, Hufnagel inspires people to live healthier and more vibrant lives, and his success is a testament to the power of hard work and staying true to one’s values.