Von Scales, Former St. Louis Basketball Standout, Dies at 58

 Von Scales, a former standout basketball player and longtime member of the St. Louis basketball community, has died at 58. News of his passing prompted tributes from relatives, friends, former teammates, and others who remembered him as a gifted athlete, devoted father, generous friend, and lasting presence around the game. His death represents a significant loss for people whose lives intersected with his through family, basketball, coaching, and friendships built over many years in the St. Louis area. His influence endured locally.

Scales became known locally through his basketball career, including his time at DeSmet High School during the mid-1980s. He later attended the University of Missouri–St. Louis, where he played on teams that included the 1988 squad that reached the NCAA Tournament. Friends remembered an exceptional athlete with a smooth left-handed shooting stroke, describing someone whose abilities stood out during both his high school and college years. His impact lasted.

His relationship with basketball continued long after his playing days. Scales participated in the Bonner Summer League and later worked as an assistant coach with the St. Louis Surge women’s professional basketball team. Those roles kept him connected to players and fellow basketball people while allowing him to remain part of a sport that had shaped much of his life. Former teammates remembered both his talent and the relationships he developed around the game. His support mattered.

Away from the court, Scales was remembered especially for his role as a father. He was devoted to his three sons, Evan, Cameron, and Brendan, who were described as standout athletes at Lafayette High School. One son recalled that his father sacrificed everything to help his children succeed and encouraged them to become better than he was. He also remembered Scales being present during one of the lowest points of his life, offering confidence and support when it mattered most. Basketball remained central.

Friends described other qualities that helped define Scales beyond basketball. He was remembered for generosity, curiosity, openness, and a willingness to maintain friendships over time. Former roommate and teammate Mark Edward Stanley called him one of the best athletes he had ever seen on a team and expressed gratitude that they had spoken and caught up about a month before Scales died. Such memories highlight relationships that continued well beyond shared seasons and games. Family remained important.

Scales was also known nationally through his marriage to Trina Braxton, a member of the Braxton family. Tributes following his death described their relationship in terms of love and support, while friends and members of the Braxton family offered condolences to Trina, their children, and the wider family. Other friends recalled a man who could be outspoken and caring, reflecting the different roles he held as a husband, father, teammate, coach, and friend. Friends remembered him.

The St. Louis basketball community now mourns a man whose life was closely connected to athletics and the people around him. His legacy includes accomplishments as a player, continued involvement as a coach, and the support he gave his sons and friends. Funeral or memorial arrangements and further details surrounding his death were not provided in the available information. For those who knew Von Scales, memories of his talent, generosity, family devotion, and enduring friendships will remain central to how he is remembered by those who knew him. His legacy endures.