Frank Selvy, the basketball luminary who left an indelible mark on NCAA history, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91 at his home in Simpsonville. The news was confirmed by his family and the Furman athletic department, marking the end of an era for those who knew and revered him.
A Historic Feat in College Basketball
Selvy etched his name in NCAA folklore on February 13, 1954, during a stunning 145-95 victory over Newberry in Greenville. On that historic evening, Selvy scored an unprecedented 100 points in a single game, a Division I record that remains unbroken. His remarkable performance included 41 field goals and 18 free throws, an achievement that has since become a benchmark in college basketball.
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy's journey to collegiate stardom began at Furman University, where he led the NCAA in scoring twice during his career from 1952 to 1954. During his senior year, he averaged an extraordinary 41.7 points per game, scoring 40 points or more in 22 out of 78 college games. His exceptional skills earned him Southern Conference player of the year honors for both the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons and solidified his status as a three-time All-America selection.
A Promising Professional Career
Following his illustrious college career, Selvy was selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1954 by the Baltimore Bullets. He went on to have an impressive nine-year run in the NBA, becoming a two-time All-Star. Over his professional tenure, Selvy played for five different franchises, spending his final four and a half seasons with the Lakers. This period included the significant transition of the Lakers franchise from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
Returning to Furman
After retiring from his NBA career, Selvy returned to Furman University, this time in a coaching role. He led the team for four seasons, further contributing to the institution that had been instrumental in his development as a player. Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, Jason Donnelly, succinctly encapsulated Selvy's legacy by referring to him as “Furman's all-time greatest athlete.”
A Life Well Lived and A Legacy Remembered
Away from the court, Selvy's life was equally rich. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, and their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy. His family also includes 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who carry on the legacy of a man who achieved more than most in the world of sports.
Selvy’s passing is not just a loss for his family and friends but also for the greater basketball community and the countless individuals he inspired. His record-setting night in 1954 and numerous contributions to the sport at both collegiate and professional levels ensure that his memory will continue to resonate for years to come.