Some people are born leaders. Others take time and effort to fully embrace being in a position of leadership.

Darrius Morrow, a senior on East Carolina’s men’s basketball team, has always possessed some of the qualities a leader needs — positive attitude, trusting teammates and backing up words with actions. But not until this season has Morrow stepped into an unquestionable leadership role for the Pirates, and that’s because he needed to grow up while growing into that position.

“One of the nice things about coaching is seeing a kid buy in and make the transition and show leadership when things aren’t going well,” ECU coach Jeff Lebo said of Morrow, a team captain. “He has a lot on his shoulders now. ... We don’t really have a guy that can push him every day in practice, which is a concern for us. But he’s managing to bust his tail and get through it.

For the complete article, please pick up a copy of The Daily Reflector or purchase today’s electronic edition at http://www.reflector.com/circ-store. Current home delivery and electronic edition subscribers may log in to access this article at no charge. To become a subscriber, please click here or contact Customer Service at (252) 329-9505.