Athletes Unite: NFL, MLB, and NBA Stars Back Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Water

Athletes Unite for Impact at Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Water

Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages has welcomed three prominent athletes into its brand: NFL rookie Tetairoa McMillan, MLB All-Star Devin Williams, and NBA veteran Jerami Grant. Their partnership with Waiākea symbolizes a collective commitment to using their influence for positive change, aligning perfectly with the company's ethos of sustainability and community welfare.

The Newest Faces of Waiākea

Tetairoa McMillan, affectionately known as T-Mac, is making waves as a rookie with the Carolina Panthers, having been drafted eighth overall in the 2024 NFL draft. With accolades including the 2024 Consensus All-American and the title of University of Arizona's all-time receiving leader, McMillan has quickly projected himself as a strong contender for the 2025 Offensive Rookie of the Year. His passion for the brand stems from its deep-rooted commitment to environmental ethics and community support as reflected by the concept of Mālama i ka 'Āina, which translates to caring for the land.

Joining him, Devin Williams, a two-time MLB All-Star and the New York Mets' recent acquisition, shares the same values. Williams has expressed his eagerness to help the brand grow, citing its special focus and innovative approaches as major attractions. Jerami Grant, a celebrated NBA forward and Olympic Gold Medalist, has long been a fan of Waiākea’s products. He appreciates the philanthropic core and family-oriented focus that the company embodies.

A Shared Vision

All three athletes express a shared belief in the power of purposeful partnerships to drive meaningful change. Their investments catalyze a greater impact both in sports and society. As McMillan states, “Waiākea represents the pride of Hawai'i and the power of doing things the right way.” This sentiment resonates with Grant, who emphasizes Waiākea’s environmental commitment and community stewardship as motivation for his involvement.

They are joining a roster of notable athlete investors who already support Waiākea, including MLB MVP Aaron Judge, NFL All-Pro Myles Garrett, and 4x NBA Champion Klay Thompson. Together, they form a strong alliance, dedicated to proving that companies can indeed be catalysts for positive change.

Waiākea's Commitment to Sustainability

Founded in 2012 in Hilo, Hawai'i, Waiākea has positioned itself not just as a beverage company, but as a public benefit corporation committed to sustainability and community development. The brand boasts an impressive record—pioneering the use of 100% post-consumer recycled packaging in the beverage industry.

The natural volcanic water, filtered through 14,000 feet of porous volcanic rock, is rich in electrolytes and essential minerals, notably alkaline. The company’s overarching mission extends beyond business; through its non-profit, the Kōkua Initiative, Waiākea educates and uplifts communities across Hawai'i.

To date, their efforts have impacted over 495,000 individuals, focusing on community empowerment, conservation, and support for vulnerable populations. This commitment has earned Waiākea recognition as one of the highest-scoring Certified B Corporations™ in the beverage and water sectors.

Looking Ahead

As Waiākea continues to expand into 2026, the integration of McMillan, Williams, and Grant into its team signifies a confident step toward an even broader impact. CEO Ryan Emmons expresses pride in having these athletes on board, noting their dedication to community and environmental priorities. The addition of these star athletes not only reinforces the brand’s commitment to sustainability but also serves as a reminder that sports and social responsibility can go hand in hand.

Waiākea demonstrates that the journey of doing business can indeed align with the principles of 'Aloha', fostering love and respect for people and the planet. With an ever-growing list of respected figures from various sports, the company is set to lead even further in innovating sustainability in the beverage industry while uplifting its community values.