Earlier this month Moala Tautuaa started his international basketball career for the Malaysia Dragons. It has been quite the adjustment for the 6-foot-6 former Chadron State star.
 
With over 1.5 million people, it's safe to say that Kuala Lumpur Malaysia is bigger than Chadron. Temperatures usually average between 72 and 91 degrees, while never falling below 57.
 
As far as hoops, it's been quite the change for Tautuaa. He played at center during most of his college career but the Dragons have him playing at forward to utilize his quickness and explosiveness. This also leaves him not having to guard opposing centers and give up a height advantage.
 
Shooting is emphasized for the Dragons and Tautuaa finished a perfect 2-for-2 from three point range in his first game.
 
“It's also different because now I can grab rebounds off the rim and it's not goaltending, that's an advantage for me because I love playing by the rim," he said.
 
Tautuaa led the Eagles in scoring at 12.9 points a game and rebounding with a 5.6 average last season. His 63.5 percent field goal percentage led the team and ranked second in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.
 
During his career, Tautuaa shot 62.6 percent (426-681) from the field to break the old mark of 61.9 percent that Elijah Collins set during 2001-05. Tautuaa finished with 1,160 points, tying him for 17th all-time at CSC.