Frank Selvy: A Legend Remembered
Frank Selvy, the basketball icon who once set the NCAA Division I record by scoring 100 points in a single game, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91. Selvy died at his home in Simpsonville, as announced by his family, and the news was later confirmed by the Furman athletic department.
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy carved out an extraordinary collegiate career at Furman University, where he left an indelible mark on the sport. On February 13, 1954, during a game against Newberry, he achieved the historic feat of scoring 100 points, leading Furman to a resounding 145-95 victory. In that game, Selvy's scoring arsenal was on full display as he netted 41 field goals and 18 free throws.
Selvy's collegiate accolades were numerous and well-deserved. From 1952 to 1954, he led the NCAA in scoring twice and managed to score 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 college games. His senior year was particularly remarkable as he averaged an astounding 41.7 points per game. His dominance on the court earned him Southern Conference player of the year honors for both the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons, and he was a three-time All-America selection.
Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, reflected on Selvy's legacy, describing him as "Furman's all-time greatest athlete."
Following his stellar college career, Selvy was selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1954 by the Baltimore Bullets. He then went on to have a nine-year career in the NBA, during which he became a two-time All-Star. During his time in the NBA, Selvy played for five different franchises and spent his last four and a half seasons with the Lakers, experiencing the franchise's relocation from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
After hanging up his professional sneakers, Selvy returned to Furman University as a coach, leading the team for four seasons. His deep connection to Furman and the sport of basketball lasted throughout his life, as he continued to influence and inspire future generations of athletes.
Frank Selvy is survived by his wife, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, along with 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. As the sports world reflects on Selvy's contributions, his incredible achievements on the basketball court and his lasting impact on Furman University will undoubtedly remain a significant part of his legacy.