Isiah Thomas continues his coaching odyssey this week, in a roundabout sort of way.

Thomas, fired by the Indiana Pacers in August, will visit various NBA teams in training camp to enhance his knowledge during his enforced sabbatical.

"I'll take this year and continue to do what I can to get better," said Thomas, who declined to identify the teams he will visit. "It's no different than when you're a player. Every day you try to get better.

"I'll visit and watch other people and spend my time wisely."

Thomas already has worked with IUPUI's basketball team as an invited guest of coach Ron Hunter, and plans to visit other college teams. He also has been discussing possible television work with ESPN, but wants to focus most of his attention on preparing for another NBA coaching job.

"You can always improve as a coach," he said. "It's like when you're playing. Every day when you wake up there's something to learn and a new way of doing things.

"Wherever the ball is bouncing, I'll be in the gym."