Frank Selvy, an iconic figure in college basketball history, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91. Selvy, heralded notably as “Furman's all-time greatest athlete” by Furman's Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, Jason Donnelly, died at his home in Simpsonville. The news of his passing was confirmed by the Furman athletic department.
A Record-Breaking Collegiate Career
Selvy’s name is etched forever in the annals of NCAA basketball history for scoring an unmatched 100 points in a single game. This extraordinary feat came to pass during Furman’s 145-95 victory over Newberry on February 13, 1954, in Greenville. In that game, Selvy’s performance was nothing short of astonishing as he netted 41 field goals and 18 free throws.
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy had an illustrious collegiate career spanning from 1952 to 1954. He led the NCAA in scoring twice during these years, showcasing his prowess on the court consistently. As a senior, he boasted an average of 41.7 points per game. Notably, Selvy scored 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 college games—a testament to his scoring ability.
Recognized Excellence
Selvy's stellar performances did not go unnoticed. He earned Southern Conference player of the year honors for the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons. Additionally, he was a three-time All-America selection, cementing his reputation as one of the foremost talents in college basketball at the time.
From College Star to NBA Professional
In 1954, Selvy was selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Baltimore Bullets, marking the beginning of his professional career. Over the span of nine years in the NBA, he played for five different franchises and earned the distinction of being a two-time All-Star. Particularly noteworthy was his tenure with the Lakers, where he spent his final four and a half seasons. This period included the franchise's historic move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
A Return to Furman
After his NBA career, Selvy returned to Furman, this time as a coach. He led the team for four seasons, bringing his extensive knowledge and experience back to the institution where he had achieved so much.
A Lasting Legacy
Frank Selvy leaves behind a substantial legacy both on and off the court. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His contributions to basketball, particularly at Furman, ensure that his memory will be cherished for years to come.