Frank Selvy, an iconic figure in collegiate basketball history, has passed away at the age of 91. Selvy's family confirmed that he died at his home in Simpsonville, with Furman's athletic department corroborating the news.
An Unmatched Legacy
Remarkably, Frank Selvy remains the only player in NCAA Division I history to score 100 points in a single game. This monumental achievement occurred on February 13, 1954, when Furman triumphed over Newberry with a score of 145-95 in Greenville. During that historic game, Selvy showcased an extraordinary performance, netting 41 field goals and 18 free throws.
Collegiate Greatness
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy demonstrated his basketball prowess during his time at Furman University, where he led the NCAA in scoring twice between 1952 and 1954. As a senior, Selvy boasted an astounding average of 41.7 points per game. His ability to consistently perform at an elite level was evident, as he scored 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 college games. Such performances earned him the Southern Conference player of the year honors for the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons, as well as a three-time selection to the All-America team.
NBA Career
Following his illustrious collegiate career, Selvy was selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1954 by the Baltimore Bullets. Over the course of his nine-year NBA career, he played for five different franchises and earned the distinction of being a two-time All-Star. Selvy spent the last four and a half seasons of his professional career with the Lakers, contributing to the franchise's move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
Return to Furman and Personal Life
After retiring from the NBA, Selvy returned to his alma mater, Furman University, to lead the basketball team as a coach for four seasons. His dedication to the sport and to Furman cemented his status as a beloved figure in the institution's history. Reflecting on his legacy, Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, described Selvy as “Furman's all-time greatest athlete.”
Frank Selvy is survived by his wife, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era for those who remember his incredible contributions to the game of basketball, both on and off the court.
Selvy's legacy endures through the records he set, the lives he touched, and the enduring impact he had on basketball as a sport. His name will forever be synonymous with excellence and passion for the game.