Frank Selvy, the legendary basketball player known for his unparalleled accomplishments in collegiate and professional basketball, has passed away at the age of 91. Selvy died peacefully at his home in Simpsonville, as confirmed by his family and the Furman athletic department.
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy carved out an extraordinary legacy in the world of basketball, beginning with his remarkable college career at Furman University. Perhaps his most famous achievement came on February 13, 1954, when he set an NCAA Division I record by scoring 100 points in a single game against Newberry College. In that monumental 145-95 victory, Selvy dominated the court with an astonishing 41 field goals and 18 free throws.
During his time at Furman from 1952 to 1954, Selvy led the NCAA in scoring twice and boasted an impressive senior year average of 41.7 points per game. His scoring prowess was unmatched, as he recorded 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 collegiate games. These staggering numbers garnered him Southern Conference Player of the Year honors for two consecutive seasons and made him a three-time All-America selection.
After concluding his illustrious college career, Selvy was the first overall pick in the 1954 NBA draft, selected by the Baltimore Bullets. Over the course of his nine-year NBA career, he played for five different franchises, earning two All-Star selections. Selvy's journey included significant time with the Lakers, during which he experienced the franchise’s historic transition from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, described Selvy as “Furman's all-time greatest athlete.” Such high praise speaks volumes about Selvy's contributions to the sport and his impact on the institution.
After retiring from the NBA, Selvy returned to Furman to impart his knowledge and passion for basketball as a coach, leading the team for four seasons. His deep connection to Furman underscored his lifelong dedication to the game and the university that helped define it.
Selvy's passing marks the end of an era for Furman and the broader basketball community. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His legacy, however, will endure through the records he set, the lives he touched, and the inspiration he provided to future generations of athletes.