Frank Selvy, a basketball legend whose career is etched in the annals of NCAA history, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91. His family reported that Selvy died at his home in Simpsonville, South Carolina.
The Furman University athletic department confirmed the news, mourning the loss of an icon celebrated for his impeccable prowess on the court. Selvy's remarkable legacy includes holding the NCAA Division I record for scoring 100 points in a single game, a milestone he achieved during Furman's 145-95 victory over Newberry on February 13, 1954, in Greenville.
During that historic game, Selvy achieved an extraordinary feat by netting 41 field goals and 18 free throws, a performance that remains unparalleled in college basketball. Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy was a scoring machine who twice led the NCAA in scoring from 1952 to 1954. His senior year saw him average a staggering 41.7 points per game.
A College Career Like No Other
Throughout his collegiate career, Selvy had 22 games where he scored over 40 points, solidifying his reputation as a scoring phenom. His exceptional performance earned him Southern Conference player of the year honors for the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons. Moreover, he was a three-time All-America selection, a testament to his sustained excellence on the court.
Jason Donnelly, Furman University's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, spoke highly of Selvy, encapsulating his indelible impact on Furman's athletic history. “Furman's all-time greatest athlete,” Donnelly remarked, underscoring the athlete's unparalleled contribution to the university's sports legacy.
Journey to the NBA
Selvy's talents transcended the college level, leading to his selection as the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1954 by the Baltimore Bullets. His nine-year NBA career was marked by highlights that included two All-Star selections and stints with five different NBA franchises.
Perhaps most notably, Selvy spent his last four and a half seasons in the NBA with the Lakers, a period that included the team's historic move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960. During his time with the Lakers, Selvy continued to demonstrate his scoring ability and versatility on the court.
Returning Home
After concluding his professional basketball career, Selvy returned to his roots at Furman University, where he took on the role of coach. He led Furman’s basketball team for four seasons, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for the game with a new generation of players. His impact as a coach further solidified his revered status within the Furman community.
Frank Selvy's legacy lives on, not only through his many accolades and records but also through his family. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His life and career remain a source of inspiration for athletes and fans alike.
In remembering Frank Selvy, the world of basketball honors a man whose talent and determination set a high bar for future generations. His contributions to Furman University and the NBA will forever be remembered as a pivotal part of basketball history.