Updated

Pittsburgh coach Jamie Dixon is having his team pick up the pace as it begins its second season in the ACC.

The Panthers focused on improved conditioning in the offseason as they try to adapt to ACC's more uptempo style of play.

Pitt will rely heavily on athletic forward/center Michael Young. The sophomore lost weight in the offseason while adding muscle. Dixon hopes Young's development will make him a matchup problem for opponents.

The Panthers will start the season without senior guard Cam Wright, who is out with a fractured foot. He likely won't play during an important trip to Hawaii for the Maui Invitational later this month.

Pitt opens the season on Friday night against Niagara.