A 6'6' forward, Holup starred at George Washington University from 1953 to 1956. He tallied 2,226 points and 2,030 rebounds in 104 varsity games, and led the NCAA in rebounds per game during the 1955-56 season. Holup held George Washington's record for most career points until 2003, when he was surpassed by Chris Monroe. He ranks second among NCAA Division I rebounding leaders with his 2,030 career rebounds.