Remembering Frank Selvy: Furman's All-Time Greatest Athlete
Frank Selvy, a name synonymous with basketball greatness at Furman University, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91. Selvy's family announced that he died at his home in Simpsonville. The Furman athletic department also confirmed the news.
A remarkable figure in college basketball history, Selvy holds the distinction of scoring an NCAA Division I-record 100 points in a single game. This historic feat was achieved during a 145-95 victory over Newberry on February 13, 1954, in Greenville. Selvy's performance in that game saw him net 41 field goals and 18 free throws, forever etching his name in the annals of college basketball.
Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, described Selvy as "Furman's all-time greatest athlete." Indeed, Selvy's legacy at Furman is unparalleled. Born in Corbin, Kentucky, he made a lasting impact during his collegiate career from 1952 to 1954, twice leading the NCAA in scoring with an astonishing average of 41.7 points per game as a senior. Throughout his college career, Selvy scored 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 games. Such consistent excellence earned him Southern Conference player of the year honors for two consecutive seasons (1952-53 and 1953-54), along with a three-time All-America selection.
A Stellar NBA Career
Selvy's prowess on the court did not go unnoticed by the NBA, and he was selected as the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1954 by the Baltimore Bullets. Over his nine-year NBA career, Selvy became a two-time All-Star, playing for five different franchises. His journey in the league saw him spend his last four and a half seasons with the Lakers, a period that included the franchise's move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
Returning to His Roots
After hanging up his NBA jersey, Selvy returned to Furman, this time as a coach. He led the Paladins for four seasons, further cementing his legacy within the Furman community. Throughout his life, Selvy remained a beloved figure at the university and amongst basketball aficionados.
A Life Remembered
In remembering Frank Selvy, it is evident that his impact on the sport goes beyond statistics and records. He was a trailblazer, a mentor, and a symbol of athletic excellence. Selvy is survived by his wife of 65 years, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
While no cause of death has been revealed, the outpouring of tributes and memories shared by those who knew him attest to the profound effect he had on those around him. Frank Selvy’s legacy will continue to inspire and resonate within the world of basketball and beyond.