Tom Thibodeau believes he's evolved his coaching techniques during his sabbatical from coaching. Thibodeau visited 13 different NBA teams last season, observing practices and having lunches with coaches.

Thibodeau also learned about long-term rest techniques and injury-prevention methods. The Warriors' "Strength in Numbers" vision also resonated.

Instead of making major moves in his first offseason, Thibodeau largely kept his core in place.

"I liked the core of the team. I want to get to know them better," he said. "I'm going to focus on the players we have. That gives me a better idea of what our needs are."

"It's a clinic every day," Ricky Rubio said. "There's an intensity in practice. He's tough but in a good way."

"It's like building a house," Thibodeau said. "We're still working on the foundation."