Frank Selvy, an iconic figure in American college basketball, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91. His family announced that Selvy died at his home in Simpsonville, and the Furman athletic department subsequently confirmed the news.
A Record-Breaking Career
Frank Selvy will forever be etched in basketball history for his extraordinary feat of scoring an NCAA Division I-record 100 points in a single game. This remarkable achievement occurred on February 13, 1954, during Furman's 145-95 victory over Newberry in Greenville. On that unforgettable night, Selvy netted 41 field goals and 18 free throws, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest scorers in collegiate basketball history.
Early Life and College Career
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy's basketball journey began in earnest when he attended Furman University. During his collegiate career from 1952 to 1954, Selvy proved to be an unstoppable force on the court, leading the NCAA in scoring for two consecutive seasons. As a senior, he posted an astounding average of 41.7 points per game. His scoring prowess was such that he notched 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 college games. These remarkable statistics earned him the Southern Conference player of the year honors for the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons and three All-America selections.
Transition to the NBA
Selvy's stellar college career caught the attention of the NBA, and he was selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1954 by the Baltimore Bullets. Over his nine-year NBA career, Selvy became a two-time All-Star and played for five different franchises. Notably, he spent his last four and a half seasons with the Lakers, experiencing the franchise's transition from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
Coaching and Legacy
Following his NBA career, Selvy returned to Furman University, this time as a coach, where he led the team for four seasons. His contributions to Furman did not go unrecognized. Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, lauded Selvy as “Furman's all-time greatest athlete,” a testament to the indelible mark he left on the school's athletic program.
Family and Personal Life
Selvy is survived by his wife, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, as well as 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure through the records he set and the countless lives he touched both on and off the court.
Frank Selvy's achievements in basketball were extraordinary, from his unprecedented scoring in college to his impactful career in the NBA. He leaves behind a rich legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.