Frank Selvy, renowned as one of collegiate basketball's most formidable scorers and an enduring figure in the NBA, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91. Selvy's family announced that he died at his home in Simpsonville, followed by confirmation from Furman's athletic department.
An Unparalleled Legacy
Selvy's name is indelibly etched in the annals of NCAA history, particularly for his monumental achievement of scoring an NCAA Division I-record 100 points in a single game. This extraordinary performance occurred during a 145-95 victory over Newberry on February 13, 1954, in Greenville. Selvy netted an astounding 41 field goals and 18 free throws, a feat that remains unmatched.
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy's collegiate career at Furman University saw him lead the NCAA in scoring twice between 1952 and 1954. As a senior, he dazzled with an average of 41.7 points per game, scoring 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 college games. His offensive prowess earned him Southern Conference Player of the Year honors for both the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons and made him a three-time All-America selection.
A Trailblazer in Professional Basketball
Selvy's incredible collegiate performance paved the way for his selection as the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1954 by the Baltimore Bullets. His professional career spanned nine years, during which he became a two-time NBA All-Star and played for five different NBA franchises. Notably, Selvy spent his last four and a half seasons in the NBA with the Lakers, experiencing the franchise’s historic move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
Following his illustrious NBA career, Selvy returned to his alma mater, Furman University, to coach their basketball team for four seasons, further endearing himself to the institution and its community.
Remembering a Basketball Icon
Furman’s vice president of intercollegiate athletics, Jason Donnelly, lauded Selvy's impact, stating, "Furman's all-time greatest athlete." Selvy's legacy transcends his remarkable statistics, embodying the spirit and passion of basketball that inspired many.
Frank Selvy is survived by his wife, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
Selvy's passing marks the end of an era for basketball enthusiasts who remember his incredible feats both on the collegiate courts and in the professional arenas. His record-setting game and his contributions to basketball as a player and coach ensure that his memory will be cherished by generations to come.