Frank Selvy, a legendary figure in college basketball, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91. The news was confirmed by his family and the Furman athletic department, marking the end of an era for a player whose achievements still resonate in the annals of the sport.
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy carved his name into history books with a record that remains unbroken: scoring an NCAA Division I-record 100 points in a single game. This extraordinary feat was accomplished during a 145-95 victory over Newberry on February 13, 1954, in Greenville. On that day, Selvy netted an astonishing 41 field goals and 18 free throws, demonstrating a level of dominance that is rarely seen on the basketball court.
Selvy's collegiate career at Furman was marked by outstanding achievements and accolades. He led the NCAA in scoring twice during his tenure from 1952 to 1954 and averaged an impressive 41.7 points per game as a senior. His scoring prowess was further underscored by his ability to score 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 college games. Such consistent performance earned him Southern Conference player of the year honors for the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons. Additionally, he was a three-time All-America selection, solidifying his legacy as a collegiate basketball powerhouse.
“Furman's all-time greatest athlete,” remarked Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, a sentiment that captures the high esteem in which Selvy is held within the Furman community.
Upon concluding his stellar college career, Selvy entered the professional realm as the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1954, selected by the Baltimore Bullets. His professional career spanned nine years in the NBA, during which he played for five different franchises and earned two All-Star selections. One of the defining chapters of his NBA career was his tenure with the Lakers, where he spent his last four and a half seasons. Selvy's time with the Lakers included the franchise's historic move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
Following his NBA career, Selvy returned to Furman, this time as a coach. He led the Furman basketball team for four seasons, imparting his extensive knowledge and experience to the next generation of players.
Frank 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 legacy, both as a player and coach, will continue to inspire future generations of basketball players and fans.
Selvy's death marks the passing of a true icon in the world of collegiate and professional basketball, whose contributions to the sport will be remembered for generations to come.