Liam Branger: A Knight's Lasting Legacy

ORLANDO - When Liam Branger first arrived in Orlando in 2023, he wasn’t entirely sure what awaited him. The Bordeaux, France native had spent some time competing at a French college, but the leap to UCF was a different challenge altogether. What followed was a career defined by clutch performances, resilience and a deep connection to Knight Nation.

Now, as the 2025-26 season begins, Branger’s time in Black and Gold has come to an end and he leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered long after his final match.

The Florida sunshine and UCF’s unique spirit quickly won him over as Branger made the transfer to a US institution. “UCF has something special that other Florida universities don’t have,” Branger said. “I feel extremely lucky to say that I’m now a UCF alumni.”

Branger’s career is filled with highlights, each one adding to his growing reputation as a player who thrived under pressure. In 2024, he delivered one of the most important wins in program history against Tulsa. With the overall match tied 3-3, Branger clinched the deciding point, securing a 4–3 victory that pushed UCF to a 14–1 start marking the best opening stretch in program history.

In 2025, Branger found himself in another pressure-packed moment against then No. 4 Ohio State at the Knight’s first ever appearance at the ITA National Indoors. Down 2-4 in the third set, he clawed his way back with relentless energy, turning the deficit into a 6-4 victory in the third set. The match was tied 2-2 at the time, and Branger’s comeback gave UCF a crucial 3-2 lead, setting up teammate Nicolas Oliveira to clinch the upset and bring them one of the most important moments of Branger’s career and the men’s tennis program.

That moment couldn’t have happened if it weren’t for another clutch moment from Branger. The one memory from his time with the Black and Gold that stands above the rest: the ITA Kick-Off match against Arizona in January 2025. Playing No. 1 doubles and No. 4 singles, Branger helped secure the doubles point alongside teammate Paul Colin. But the real momentum shift came in singles play. With the score tied 3-3, Branger was the last Knight standing on the court.

With history on the line, Branger delivered. A 6-3 third set victory sealed UCF’s ticket to the ITA National Indoors, setting the tone for the historic season they had ahead of them.

“It was amazing to celebrate with the guys in front of the Arizona crowd after securing our ticket to the ITA National Indoors” Branger said.

For Branger, UCF became more than a place to compete, it became home.

His journey also brought personal growth. Arriving with limited English, Branger struggled to communicate at first. “When I first arrived, I could barely speak English and struggled to communicate, but everyone helped me throughout my journey and now I can speak English fluently,” he said. College tennis also taught him resilience. He learned how to handle pressure, stress and physical challenges both on and off the court.

As Branger departs, his gratitude is clear.

From Bordeaux to Orlando, Branger’s journey embodies the spirit of a Knight: perseverance, passion and pride. His clutch victories and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on Knight Nation. And while his playing days in Black and Gold are over, one thing is certain. Liam Branger will always be a Knight.

ABOUT UCF ATHLETICS
UCF is a proud member of the Big 12 Conference. Our mission is to positively transform the lives of our students academically, athletically, and personally through a nationally competitive intercollegiate athletics program that enhances the reputation and visibility of the University. We strive to be Florida's preeminent athletic program, representing UCF and our community with distinction on the national stage as "Orlando's Hometown Team". To learn more about UCF and Athletics, please visit our websites at www.ucf.edu and www.ucfknights.com.