Frank Selvy, the legendary basketball player who etched his name into the annals of NCAA history, passed away on Tuesday at 91. His family disclosed that Selvy died peacefully at his home in Simpsonville, a sentiment confirmed by the Furman athletic department.
Selvy, born in Corbin, Kentucky, stands out remarkably in the chronicles of college basketball. His most iconic achievement came on February 13, 1954, when he scored 100 points in a single game against Newberry, leading Furman to a resounding 145-95 victory. In that historic game, Selvy drained 41 field goals and 18 free throws, a performance that remains unmatched in NCAA Division I history.
A Storied Collegiate Career
Selvy's collegiate career from 1952 to 1954 was nothing short of extraordinary. He led the NCAA in scoring twice and, as a senior, averaged an astonishing 41.7 points per game. His prowess on the court was evident in his ability to consistently perform at a high level, scoring 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 games for Furman. This consistency and brilliance earned him Southern Conference Player of the Year honors for the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons and solidified his status as a three-time All-America selection.
Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, rightly dubbed him "Furman's all-time greatest athlete," a testament to Selvy's enduring legacy at the institution.
From College Star to NBA All-Star
Selvy's talents did not go unnoticed by the professional ranks. In 1954, he was selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Baltimore Bullets. His NBA career spanned nine years, during which he played for five different franchises and became a two-time All-Star. Most notably, Selvy spent his final four and a half NBA seasons with the Lakers, a period that included the franchise's historic move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
Returning to His Roots
After his NBA career, Selvy returned to his alma mater to serve as Furman's head basketball coach. He led the team for four seasons, imparting his extensive knowledge and passion for the game to new generations of players.
A Lasting Legacy
Selvy's passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure. 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 the game of basketball, both on and off the court, leave an indelible impact, inspiring countless athletes and fans.
As the sports community mourns his passing, Frank Selvy's incredible life and career continue to be celebrated, reminding us all of the heights that can be reached with talent, dedication, and an unwavering love for the game.