[Cactus Jack]

Sheppard played 32 minutes, which was more than anyone else. Dillingham tied with Wagner for the second-most at 29. Reeves was in foul trouble and limited to 18.

There are only 3 players in the entire NCAA who play more than 38 minutes per game (38.4, 38.2, and 38). Only 6 players in the NCAA play above 37 minutes per game. Only 30 players play 36 or more. If you play 35.3 minutes per game, you are in the top 50.

Creighton is the only school that has a player on the list of 30 that even a diehard fans might have a chance at naming if asked to name MPG leaders. If you expand it to the top 50, the only recognizable programs you'll see are Gonzaga and Kansas, and only one of those two has a real chance at playing in the NBA.

All of this to say-- 32 minutes for any player is a lot, especially for a Kentucky-caliber program. To further put it in perspective, on average, Texas A&M has played Wade Taylor 32.8 minutes per game this season.

Giving Sheppard another four to six minutes (and playing him at an NCAA leading pace) still doesn't make a difference in this game. The problem is much deeper than just "give Sheppard more minutes".