Maranatha's Darian Pittman has not only blossomed into a dynamic point guard, but now a proven leader on one of Class 1A’s top teams.

Pittman, who is averaging 11.8 points per game, took control of Saturday’s contest against Henry Sibley. The 5-11 junior scored 21 points, but more importantly, settled down the Mustangs after a shaky start. Maranatha eventually came from behind to beat Class 4A Henry Sibley 71-66.

Coach Jeff Wall said he’s been controlling the tempo all year and his court leadership is increasingly noticeable.

“You could see sometimes out there when things got a little down and our rhythm seemed to stop, he would step up and talk to his teammates about it,” said Wall, who has guided the Mustangs to an 11-2 record this season. He’s got high goals for himself and the team and he’s our vocal leader.”

Pittman and the Mustangs love playing the bigger schools. After the big victory over Henry Sibley, they lost 70-53 Tuesday to Eden Prairie.

“We set the standards high and we want to do big things this year,” Pittman said. “We know the work ethic has to be top of the notch to do that.”