Frank Selvy, the only individual in NCAA Division I history to score 100 points in a single game, has died at age 91. Known for his time with the New York Knicks and several other NBA teams, Selvy passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, according to an announcement by his alma mater, Furman University. He spent his final moments at his home in Simpsonville, South Carolina, surrounded by his family.
Born in Corbin, Kentucky, on November 9, 1932, Selvy’s talent for basketball became apparent during his college years at Furman University. On February 13, 1954, he achieved a feat that remains unmatched in NCAA Division I history. Selvy scored 100 points in a game against Newberry College, hitting 41 field goals and sinking 18 free throws, leading Furman to a 145-95 victory.
Furman University recognized and celebrated Selvy’s significant contributions to their basketball program, both as a player and later as a coach. His No. 28 jersey was retired by the university, and in 2022, he was inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.
Following his extraordinary college career, Selvy was the No. 1 pick in the 1954 NBA Draft, selected by the Baltimore Bullets. His professional career spanned nine seasons, playing for several teams such as the Milwaukee/St. Louis Hawks, New York Knicks, Syracuse Nationals, and Minneapolis/Los Angeles Lakers. Despite averaging 10.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game during his NBA career, Selvy never claimed an NBA championship. Nevertheless, he was a two-time NBA All-Star and played in two NBA Finals.
In the 1962 NBA Finals, Selvy, playing for the Lakers, missed a last-second shot in Game 7 against the Boston Celtics that could have won the championship. The Lakers went on to lose the game in overtime, marking a significant moment in NBA history.
Furman’s Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, Jason Donnelly, emphasized Selvy’s personal qualities in a statement released by the university. “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.”
Upon retiring from professional basketball, Selvy returned to Furman University as the head coach for the Paladins from 1966 to 1970. His return to the institution, where he had previously achieved so much, reflected his commitment to basketball and the university that played a pivotal role in his life.
Frank Selvy’s legacy in basketball extends beyond his records and accolades, marked by his significant impact on those who knew him. His contributions to Furman University and the larger basketball community will be remembered. As the sports world mourns his passing, Selvy’s name will live on in basketball history as the only player to score 100 points in a single NCAA game.
Selvy is survived by his wife Barbara, their two children, and extended family. His memory and contributions to basketball will continue to be honored by the basketball community, particularly those at Furman University.
