Frank Selvy, known for being the unique player in NCAA Division I history to score 100 points in a single game, has died at 91. Selvy, who previously played for the New York Knicks and several other NBA teams, passed away on August 13, 2024, as stated by his alma mater, Furman University. He spent his last moments in his Simpsonville, South Carolina home, surrounded by his family.
Selvy was born on November 9, 1932, in Corbin, Kentucky, and his journey in basketball started during his college years at Furman University. His exceptional talent became evident when he scored 100 points in a game against Newberry College on February 13, 1954. This record still stands in NCAA Division I history. On that day, Selvy made 41 field goals and 18 free throws, leading Furman to a 145-95 triumph.
Furman University recognized Selvy’s contribution to their basketball program, both as a player and later as a coach. The university retired his No. 28 jersey, and in 2022, he was inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.
Following his illustrious college career, Selvy was the No. 1 overall choice in the 1954 NBA Draft by the Baltimore Bullets. His professional basketball career spanned nine seasons, and he played for several teams, including the Milwaukee/St. Louis Hawks, New York Knicks, Syracuse Nationals, and Minneapolis/Los Angeles Lakers. Despite a solid NBA career, where he averaged 10.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, Selvy never clinched an NBA championship. However, he was a two-time NBA All-Star and played in two NBA Finals.
A notable event in Selvy’s NBA career happened during the 1962 NBA Finals. As a player for the Lakers, Selvy had a chance to win the championship with a last-second shot in Game 7 against the Boston Celtics. However, his shot did not go in, and the Lakers ended up losing the game in overtime. This moment is now a famous “what if” in NBA history.
Jason Donnelly, Furman’s Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, praised Selvy’s personal qualities in a university-released statement. “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.”
After retiring from professional basketball, Selvy returned to Furman University and served as the head coach for the Paladins from 1966 to 1970. His return to the place where he recorded many of his achievements was a testament to his commitment to the sport and to the university that played a significant role in his life.
Selvy’s impact on basketball is evidenced not just by his records and achievements, but also by the profound influence he had on those around him. His contributions to Furman University and the wider basketball community will be remembered. As the sports world mourns his death, his name will always be associated with the unique feat of scoring 100 points in a single NCAA game.
Selvy is survived by his wife Barbara, their two children, and other relatives. The basketball community, especially those at Furman University, will continue to honor his memory and his contributions to the game.
