Rose can cope if stars depart

So, what will Dave Rose do if Trent Plaisted and Lee Cummard do not return for their senior seasons this fall?

The two all-conference juniors combined for 1097 points — or 42 percent of BYU's point production this past season. They were leaders and veterans. Cummard ended up co-MVP of the Mountain West with New Mexico's J.R. Giddens and, at times, Plaisted was the dominating center in the league.

How would Rose replace that duo?

You don't. That's the nature of college athletics, which forces pressure on your recruiting philosophy, evaluations and ability to replenish.

Rose does have a contingency plan.

"My first consideration is to turn attention to the players we have in our program, who are familiar with our system," said Rose. "The spring semester starts next week and once it does, we'll start our off-season conditioning program, and just like we've done before, we'll prepare for next season."

Plaisted, a power forward playing center, could be replaced by Jonathan Tavernari, who has played the four spot as junior Chris Miles moves over to center. Noah Hartstock, a 6-8 freshman due off an LDS Church mission in June, was Oklahoma's 6A player of the year, and he could figure in. Gavin McGregor has been given a scholarship, and 6-10 James Anderson will be a redshirt freshman.

Cummard's skill set at the wing is a separate challenge because of his range, ability to finish and defensive prowess. Rose might go with three guards or wing players and include combos with Jimmer Fredette, Michael Loyd, Archie Rose and Lamont Morgan.

Logan High's three-time all-stater, 6-4 Charles Abouo, fresh off a season at prep school Brewster Academy, will have four years of eligibility, and former Lone Peak star Jackson Emery returns from a mission in June for his sophomore year. Both are wing players.

Rose would also have a scholarship or two to fiddle with if the vets do not return.

"I've been in this program a long, long time, and historically we've been later than others at setting our fall roster," Rose said. "That's just the way things are at BYU because things can change rapidly and as coaches, you need to be prepared to make adjustments and have contingency plans. I like the players we have in our program."

But a new face or two tucked away?

A rumor surfaced more than a week ago on the Internet that BYU would accept a BCS school transfer.

"Not true, just a rumor," Rose said.