Jan. 26, 2000 8:58 PM AP

PITTSBURGH (AP) Pittsburgh's depleted roster grew thinner Wednesday when reserve forward Derrick Worrell was dismissed from the team.

Coach Ben Howland, who has tightened discipline since succeeding Ralph Willard, suggested Worrell didn't fully accept the team concept he is trying to instill.

"As we try to build our program, it is of utmost importance that we have people who are completely and wholeheartedly dedicated to the team success," Howland said in a statement. "Those who aren't should pursue their interests elsewhere. We will not settle for anything less."

Worrell, a 6-foot-7 junior from Goldsboro, N.C., was in his first season at Pitt after transferring from Allegany (Md.) College. He played in 10 games, averaging 3.7 points and 2.2 rebounds, but his playing time had decreased significantly since November.

With freshman forward Donatas Zavackas suspended for disciplinary reasons, Pitt has played its last three games with seven scholarship players. Zavackas is expected to return for Thursday night's game against Villanova.

Pitt has played the entire season without its top player, 6-8 Isaac Hawkins, who broke a leg during preseason practice and will redshirt. The Panthers are 8-8 and have lost their last five games, all in the Big East.

Worrell was not available for comment.