Basketball Icon Remembered for Historic College Achievement Passes Away

Frank Selvy, the basketball legend known for his 100-point game, has passed away at 91.

At a Glance

Frank Selvy, aged 91, has passed away.
Scored 100 points in a college basketball game for Furman University in 1954.
Played for Furman University and later in the NBA.
Passed away at his home in Simpsonville, S.C., surrounded by family.
Survived by his wife Barbara, two children, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Legendary Achievement on the Court

Frank Selvy’s historic performance of scoring 100 points in a single college basketball game remains one of the most remarkable records in sports. This feat was achieved on February 13, 1954, while Selvy played for Furman University against Newberry College. During this game, Selvy scored 41 field goals on 66 shots and 18 free throws, without the benefit of a 3-point line.

His record-setting performance highlighted his skill and determination on the court, securing his place in basketball history.

Selvy’s time at Furman University was marked by outstanding achievements. He played from 1952 to 1954, leading the NCAA in scoring twice and averaging 41.7 points as a senior. He scored 40 points or more 22 times in 78 collegiate games and was a three-time All-American selection. Furman University honored his contributions by retiring his No. 28 jersey and inducting him into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame in 2022.

Frank Selvy, Furman basketball legend who scored 100 points in a game, dies at 91 https://t.co/00XlGW6hyf

— The Greenville News (@GreenvilleNews) August 13, 2024

Professional Career and Legacy

Frank Selvy was the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1954 by the Baltimore Bullets and went on to play nine NBA seasons. He played for five NBA franchises, with his last 4 1/2 seasons being with the Los Angeles Lakers. Selvy was an All-American in college and a two-time NBA All-Star guard, further showcasing his capabilities at the highest levels of the sport. His career in the NBA demonstrated his versatility and dedication as an athlete.

“Frank was both a mentor and a friend who had an incredible impact on Furman Basketball as a player and as a coach. In addition to being a great basketball player, Frank was a phenomenal person. He was one of the best to ever wear the jersey, and he will be deeply missed.” – Bob Richey, current Furman basketball head coach

Selvy also had a stint in coaching, guiding the Furman Paladins for four seasons after his playing career ended. His influence extended off the court, impacting numerous players and helping to shape the future of Furman Basketball.

College basketball legend Frank Selvy, who once scored 100 points in a game, dead at 91 https://t.co/3KEODndARr

— Sports News & Videos (@robinsportsnews) August 13, 2024

Personal Life and Final Days

Frank Selvy was born in Corbin, Kentucky, but called Simpsonville, South Carolina, his home in his final days. He passed away surrounded by family, including his wife Barbara, two children, 11 grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Furman’s vice president of intercollegiate athletics, Jason Donnelly, described Selvy as, “Furman’s all-time greatest athlete, a consensus All-American, NBA all-star, distinguished member of the College Basketball Hall of Fame, and one of the greatest scorers in the history of college basketball.”

“More than his accomplishments on the court, Frank’s devotion to his family was his greatest achievement,” Furman’s Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Jason Donnelly said in a statement. “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.” – Jason Donnelly

Selvy leaves behind a legacy that transcends his athletic prowess. His impact on the basketball community, both at Furman University and in the NBA, ensures that his memory will be cherished for generations to come. As we remember Frank Selvy, we honor not just what he achieved on the court, but the kind of person he was off it—dedicated, compassionate, and an inspiration to all who knew him.