Frank Selvy, the legendary basketball player known for his incredible scoring ability, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91. The announcement came from Selvy's family, who confirmed that he died peacefully at his home in Simpsonville. The Furman athletic department also verified the news, paying tribute to one of their greatest athletes.
A Record-Setting Career
Frank Selvy's name is etched in NCAA history for his extraordinary feat of scoring 100 points in a single game. This remarkable achievement took place on February 13, 1954, during a 145-95 victory over Newberry in Greenville. Selvy's performance in that game was nothing short of spectacular, as he made 41 field goals and sank 18 free throws.
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy made a significant impact during his collegiate career at Furman University from 1952 to 1954. He led the NCAA in scoring for two consecutive years and achieved an impressive average of 41.7 points per game as a senior. His scoring prowess was further highlighted by his ability to score 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 college games.
Selvy's outstanding performance on the court earned him numerous accolades, including being named the Southern Conference player of the year for both the 1952-53 and 1953-54 seasons. Additionally, he was honored as a three-time All-America selection, cementing his legacy as one of college basketball's all-time greats.
Transition to the NBA
In 1954, Selvy's talents were recognized on a national level when he was selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Baltimore Bullets. His NBA career spanned nine years, during which he played for five different franchises. Over the course of his professional career, Selvy was named an All-Star twice and left an indelible mark on the league.
Selvy's longest tenure in the NBA was with the Lakers, where he spent four and a half seasons. His time with the team included the franchise’s significant move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960, a pivotal moment in the history of the organization.
Life After Playing
After his NBA career, Selvy returned to Furman, this time as a coach. For four seasons, he led the team, imparting his knowledge and experience to the next generation of players. Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, hailed Selvy as "Furman's all-time greatest athlete," a fitting tribute to a man who left such a lasting impact on the school and the sport.
Legacy and Family
Selvy's influence extended beyond the basketball court. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, along with 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. His legacy is not only remembered through his remarkable achievements and contributions to basketball but also through his family, who cherish his memory.
Frank Selvy's life and career serve as a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for the game of basketball. His records and accolades will continue to inspire future generations of athletes to strive for greatness.