Frank Selvy, a legend in the annals of college basketball and former NBA star, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91. The Furman athletic department confirmed the news, with his family announcing that he died peacefully at his home in Simpsonville.
A Remarkable Collegiate Career
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy etched his name into the history books with a singular achievement that still stands today: scoring an unprecedented 100 points in a single NCAA Division I game. This jaw-dropping feat occurred on February 13, 1954, during Furman's 145-95 rout of Newberry, held in Greenville. On that unforgettable night, Selvy netted an incredible 41 field goals and 18 free throws, cementing his place in the record books.
During his collegiate career spanning from 1952 to 1954, Selvy led the NCAA in scoring twice. As a senior, he averaged an astonishing 41.7 points per game and achieved 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 college games. His dominance on the court earned him the Southern Conference Player of the Year honors for two consecutive seasons, 1952-53 and 1953-54. His prowess was further recognized with three-time All-America selections.
Transition to the NBA
Selvy’s collegiate brilliance caught the attention of the NBA, and in 1954, he was chosen as the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Baltimore Bullets. Over a nine-year professional career, Selvy played for five different franchises, becoming a two-time All-Star. Notably, he spent his last four and a half seasons with the Lakers, a period during which the franchise made its historic relocation from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
Return to Furman and Coaching Career
After retiring from the NBA, Selvy returned to Furman University, this time to lead the basketball team as a coach for four seasons. His return to the institution where he had set numerous records was met with great enthusiasm and respect.
A Lasting Legacy
Selvy’s influence on the sport and his legacy at Furman University was underscored by Jason Donnelly, Furman’s vice president of intercollegiate athletics, who hailed him as “Furman's all-time greatest athlete.” Selvy’s enduring impact on the game is evident not only in his records but also in the generations of players and fans he inspired.
Frank Selvy is survived by his wife, Barbara, his two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. The basketball community mourns the loss of a true legend who once made the impossible seem easy on the court.