OSU basketball: Issues, issues and more issues

Ford was exasperated for sure, having just seen his team wilt late in a 66-56 loss to New Mexico in the All-College Classic. Yet it wasn't just the loss, but all-to-familiar story lines that dropped the Cowboys to 6-4 nearing the end of the nonconference schedule that seem to be taking a toll.

* Dreary dry spurts that routinely sink the Pokes into double-digit deficits.

* Unreliable point guard play, leaving the Cowboys with little flow or direction on offense.

* Disappearing acts by key figures, continuing a trend of inconsistent play by guys Ford counts on to carry the day in most games.

* And plenty of regrets, this time a dreadful shooting night – 18-of-56 from the floor, with many of the misses from close range – and vital stretches that beg for playmakers, often in vain.

OSU has played five defining basketball games: Stanford, Virginia Tech, Missouri State, Pittsburgh and New Mexico.

All but Missouri State resulted in losses. And even the win in Springfield required a frantic late rally, at the time hinting of a possible breakthrough, but in hindsight reflective of a disturbing trend that has seen OSU fall far behind time and again.

Where do the Cowboys go from here?

Minus a fast-flip turnaround, this team will be forever pressed to overcome its many major flaws. And there's little evidence that it can right itself into a Big 12 contender or an NCAA Tournament team.

As Ford slumped into his chair to reflect on another disappointing loss, he almost gave off a vibe of defeat, although his signature competitiveness and fiery spirit suggest it was but a moment of weakness.

“Not a whole lot to be said,” began Ford, who is seldom at a lack for words.

And yet, what is there new to be said about a team that stubbornly repeats the same mistakes and poor decisions?