Clifford spent three years in Boulder before blossoming at Colorado State.
With the 24th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Sacramento Kings have acquired Nique Clifford, the former Colorado Buffaloes wing. Oklahoma City drafted Clifford, then traded him to the Kings for a 2027 first.
A consensus four-star from The Vanguard School in Colorado Springs, Clifford arrived to Boulder as the crown jewell of the 2020 recruiting class. But while future NBA players Tristan da Silva and Jabari Walker hit the ground running, Clifford took a bit more time to develop.
He always had the tools. He was huge for a shooting guard, a terrific rebounder and intelligent defender, and he had a mix of shooting, finishing and playmaking ability that suggested he could be a star wing. But his role fluctuated, his confidence diminished, and after three frustrating seasons he left for Colorado State.
Almost as soon as he stepped foot in Fort Collins, all that talent materialized into the player we see today. Niko Medved’s offense was perfect for him, a fast-paced, motionless Princeton offense that allowed Nique to be his fullest and best self.
Clifford would have been an early second rounder if he had declared last year, as he had put up an impressive 12 points, 7.6 rebounds and 3 assists for a 25-win CSU team. But he decided to stay and take on more responsibility after Isaiah Stevens graduated.
Nique emerged as a superstar in his final season, leading the Rams to the Mountain West title and an NCAA Tournament win while averaging over 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds and 4.4 assists. He looked every bit like the player he could become and so much more.
Every team needs a Nique Clifford. He’s a smart, two-way wing who thrives in a fast-paced, spread out motion-style offense. He’s going to contribute right away on his cheap, four-year rookie deal.