Along the west side of the room, his players lined up. His wife, Cheryl, sat across from him, near the front. Various officials and media filled the seats. Rose began talking, and as he did, he spoke of plans to be on the sidelines when the season starts in November, if doctors allow. He joked about being only 51, and not needing a couple of naps a day. He was asked how he felt (great) and about his timetable (warp factor nine).

He said he had heard from former teammates and coaches, friends, media members and fans from around the world.

It was, he added, a gratifying experience.

Asked if he acted any different than before, he referred the question to his wife, whose timing rivaled Seinfeld's. After a brief pause she said, "You're a little kinder and gentler."

Everyone laughed.

Rose replied, "That's because of the medication."

It was a rare session, not just because of the positive news, but because everyone was happy. For once, Rose was answering questions after an event in which everyone won. In fact, he said he received encouragement from every coach in the Mountain West Conference.

He spoke of the conference race, basketball camps and winning — the kinds of routine things you worry about right up until you get off California Screamin' and start feeling dizzy.

"I feel like I've been given a second chance," said Rose.

As I walked out into the afternoon sun, I felt a little bit the same.

After all, it might have been the best press conference of my life, too.

E-MAIL: rock@desnews.com