Basketball Icon Frank Selvy Passes Away At 91
Frank Selvy, a legendary college basketball player who once scored 100 points in a single game, has died at the age of 91.
According to a report from the Daily Mail, Selvy passed away at his home in Simpsonville, South Carolina. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Selvy was a standout player at Furman University, where he earned All-American honors three times and led the NCAA in scoring twice. His most remarkable achievement came in 1954 when he set an NCAA Division I record by scoring 100 points in a single game.
Furman University Mourns Loss Of Greatest Athlete
Jason Donnelly, Furman's vice president of intercollegiate athletics, paid tribute to Selvy, calling him "Furman's all-time greatest athlete."
Donnelly emphasized that while Selvy's on-court accomplishments were impressive, his dedication to his family was his greatest achievement.
Selvy's college career was nothing short of extraordinary. During his senior year, he averaged an astonishing 41.7 points per game. Over the course of his 78 collegiate games, he scored 40 or more points on 22 separate occasions.
After his stellar college career, Selvy was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1954 NBA draft by the Baltimore Bullets. He went on to play nine seasons in the NBA, earning two All-Star selections.
NBA Career And Return To Furman
Selvy's professional career saw him play for five different franchises. He spent the final four and a half seasons of his NBA career with the Lakers, moving with the team from Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960.
Following his playing days, Selvy returned to his alma mater, Furman University. He took on the role of head coach for the Paladins basketball team, leading the program for four seasons from 1966 to 1970.
Selvy's impact on the game of basketball, particularly at the collegiate level, was profound. His 100-point game remains one of the most impressive individual performances in NCAA history.
Legacy And Family Life
Donnelly said of Selvy:
More than his accomplishments on the court, Frank's devotion to his family was his greatest achievement. Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara and the entire Selvy family. We will miss Frank dearly but will remember him forever — a true Paladin legend.
Selvy is survived by his wife, Barbara, who is 65 years old, as well as two children, Valerie S. Miros and Mike Selvy. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Throughout his life, Selvy remained connected to the game of basketball and to Furman University. His legacy as a player, coach, and ambassador for the sport will undoubtedly live on in the annals of college basketball history.
Frank Selvy's passing marks the end of an era in college basketball. His record-setting performances, particularly his 100-point game, solidified his place as one of the greatest scorers in NCAA history.
Selvy's journey from college superstar to NBA player and eventually back to his alma mater as a coach exemplifies a life dedicated to the sport of basketball. His impact on Furman University and college basketball as a whole will be remembered for generations to come.
Lessons to Learn from This Tragedy
1. Support and Family: Frank Selvy's life teaches us the importance of supporting our loved ones. Although he achieved great professional success, he is remembered for his dedication to his family.
2. Transition and Adaptability: Selvy's career transition from player to coach highlights the importance of adaptability—a crucial skill in any field.
3. Legacy and Impact: It's vital to focus on how we can positively affect others. Selvy's influence on basketball shows that success is not just about personal achievements but also about how we help others grow.
Remember, despite taking precautions, unpredictable events can happen, and it is never the victim's fault.
Why This Story Matters
Frank Selvy's passing is a significant event for the basketball community and serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and fame. His story encourages us to appreciate the pioneers who shaped popular sports and to continue their legacy through positive actions. In a broader sense, his life and career offer lessons in passion, perseverance, and humility—qualities that transcend sports and resonate universally.
In conclusion, Frank Selvy's story is a comprehensive tableau of a man who was much more than a basketball player. His 100-point game remains a high-water mark in sports history, but his roles as a family man, coach, and community leader ensure that his influence will be felt for generations to come.