Remembering Frank Selvy: A Basketball Legend
Frank Selvy, an iconic figure in college basketball history, has passed away at the age of 91. Selvy's family confirmed that he died peacefully at his home in Simpsonville. A stalwart of the sport, Selvy's impact on basketball is enduring, and his legacy will remain etched in the annals of the game.
Selvy's historic achievement of scoring an NCAA Division I-record 100 points in a single game remains one of the most remarkable feats in sports history. This legendary performance came during a 145-95 victory over Newberry on February 13, 1954, in Greenville. On that unforgettable night, Selvy netted an astounding 41 field goals and 18 free throws, putting on a display of scoring prowess that has yet to be matched.
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy's basketball journey began at Furman University, where he quickly established himself as a scoring machine. Leading the NCAA in scoring twice during his collegiate career from 1952 to 1954, Selvy's talents were undeniable. As a senior, he maintained an average of 41.7 points per game, a testament to his consistent excellence on the court. Over the course of 78 college games, he managed to score 40 points or more in 22 outings. His impressive performances earned him Southern Conference player of the year honors for the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons, and he was a three-time All-America selection.
In 1954, Selvy's collegiate success was recognized on the national level when he was selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Baltimore Bullets. His professional career spanned nine years in the NBA, where he became a two-time All-Star. Selvy's NBA journey saw him play for five different franchises, but it was his time with the Lakers that was particularly notable. Spending his final four and a half seasons in the league with the Lakers, Selvy was part of the franchise’s significant transition from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
After hanging up his professional jersey, Selvy returned to Furman, this time taking on the role of coach. He led the team for four seasons, sharing his wealth of experience and knowledge with a new generation of players.
Reflecting on his contributions, Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, called Selvy "Furman's all-time greatest athlete.” It's a sentiment that echoes throughout the basketball community, recognizing Selvy's exceptional skill and dedication to the sport.
Selvy’s legacy extends beyond his on-court achievements. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His life and career have left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of watching him play and those who learned from his coaching.
Frank Selvy’s passing is a significant loss in the world of sports. As the Furman athletic department and the wider basketball community mourn his death, they also celebrate a life filled with extraordinary accomplishments and lasting contributions to the game of basketball. Selvy's story will continue to inspire future generations of athletes, serving as a beacon of excellence and a reminder of what can be achieved with talent, hard work, and unwavering determination.