Frank Selvy: Remembering a Basketball Legend
Basketball lost one of its cherished legends as Frank Selvy passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91. Selvy, a name synonymous with scoring prowess and athletic excellence, died at his home in Simpsonville, as confirmed by his family.
The Furman athletic department also corroborated the news, mourning the loss of a player whose achievements have become basketball folklore. A native of Corbin, Kentucky, Selvy left an indelible mark on the sport, most notably for his remarkable feat of scoring 100 points in a single NCAA Division I game. This historic achievement took place during a commanding 145-95 victory over Newberry on February 13, 1954, in Greenville, where Selvy netted an astonishing 41 field goals and 18 free throws.
Collegiate Brilliance
Selvy's collegiate career was nothing short of extraordinary. From 1952 to 1954, he led the NCAA in scoring, a testament to his offensive prowess and consistency. Notably, during his senior year, Selvy averaged an incredible 41.7 points per game, further solidifying his reputation as a scoring machine. In an era where high-scoring games were a rarity, Selvy's achievement was unparalleled.
His ability to score in bunches was evident as he recorded 40 points or more in 22 of his 78 college games. Such remarkable performances earned him the Southern Conference player of the year honors for the consecutive seasons of 1952-53 and 1953-54. Additionally, Selvy was a three-time All-America selection, a recognition of his enduring excellence on the court.
NBA Journey
The Baltimore Bullets recognized Selvy's immense talent and selected him as the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1954. Selvy's transition to the NBA saw him carve out a commendable career spanning nine years, during which he became a two-time All-Star. His professional journey took him across five different NBA franchises, underscoring his versatility and adaptability.
Among his career highlights was his tenure with the Lakers, where he spent his last four and a half seasons. This period included the historic move of the franchise from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960, marking the beginning of a new era for the team. Selvy's presence during this pivotal transition period was a significant chapter in both his career and the Lakers' storied history.
Coaching and Legacy
After hanging up his sneakers, Selvy returned to his alma mater, Furman, this time as a coach. He led the team for four seasons, imparting his vast knowledge and experience to the next generation of players. His deep connection with Furman was always evident, a bond that was acknowledged by Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, who aptly described him as “Furman's all-time greatest athlete.”
Frank Selvy's passing leaves a void in the basketball community, but his legacy endures through the records he set and the countless players he inspired. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, their two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His family's loss is felt across the basketball world, where his contributions remain etched in history.
As the sports world reflects on Frank Selvy's life and career, it is clear that his impact extended far beyond the court. He was not just a prolific scorer but also a dedicated coach and a beloved figure in the Furman community. His story is a reminder of the heights of excellence that athletes can achieve and the lasting influence they can have on those who follow in their footsteps.