Remembering Braun Levi: A Brilliant Life Interrupted, A Legacy That Endures
Braun Levi wasn’t just a tennis phenom—he was a beacon of warmth, drive, and humility who left an indelible mark on everyone lucky enough to cross his path.
At just 18, the Loyola High School senior had already carved out a name for himself in California’s competitive tennis scene, capturing four consecutive Mission League doubles titles and earning admiration not just for his game, but for the grace with which he played it.
But what should have been the beginning of an exciting new chapter—graduation, a move to the University of Virginia, and a promising athletic future—came to a sudden, heartbreaking end.
On May 4, Braun’s life was tragically cut short in Manhattan Beach by a suspected drunk driver. In an instant, the tennis world and the Loyola community lost not just a gifted athlete, but a truly good-hearted young man.
Braun had recently faced hardship beyond the court. After his family’s home was destroyed in a fire earlier this year, they relocated to South Bay—seeking a fresh start. But fate delivered another cruel blow. The driver involved in the crash, 33-year-old Jenia Belt, had a history of DUI offenses and was operating a vehicle despite a suspended license. She is currently being held without bail on charges of DUI and vehicular manslaughter.
A Leader On and Off the Court
Those closest to Braun remember more than his athletic accolades. Coaches and teammates describe him as a “quiet powerhouse”—someone who led not through volume, but through consistency, kindness, and effort. Whether rallying on the baseline or cheering from the sidelines, Braun elevated those around him.
His doubles partner, Cooper Schwartz, shared that their final title together was less about victory and more about shared joy. “We weren’t just a team—we were brothers,” Schwartz said. “Braun made everything better. Tennis, life, everything.”
A Community in Mourning
In the days following his passing, Loyola High School transformed into a place of reflection and remembrance. Students gathered for a candlelight vigil, where stories poured out—stories of generosity, of long bus rides filled with laughter, of encouragement offered to younger players just starting out.
Maccabi USA, a national Jewish athletic organization Braun had been proud to represent, also issued a statement: “Braun was the best of us. He played with heart, lived with purpose, and embodied everything we strive to teach our athletes.”
An Enduring Impact
Braun Levi is survived by his loving parents, Daniel and Jennifer, and his younger sister, Adelle. For them—and for the entire Loyola family—his absence is staggering. But even in grief, his spirit lives on: in the values he carried, the joy he spread, and the hope he ignited.
His death is a haunting reminder of the irreparable damage caused by impaired driving—a senseless, preventable act with life-shattering consequences. But his life is a reminder of what it means to truly live: to lead with heart, lift others, and leave every place better than you found it.
Braun’s story doesn’t end with tragedy. It continues in every act of kindness, every young player who puts team before self, and every person who chooses responsibility over recklessness. His legacy reminds us to live with purpose—and to never, ever take time for granted.
Rest in peace, Braun. Your light still shines.