Nique Clifford: Motor Over Metrics
Whether it’s a rebound in traffic, a timely rotation, or a hard cut that opens space, he impacts winning. Every team needs a connector. Is Clifford ready to be that guy at the next level?
Nique Clifford quietly had one of the most impactful seasons in the Mountain West, stepping into a key role at Colorado State after transferring from Colorado. He filled up the box score as a rebounder, defender, and connective playmaker—doing all the little things that drive winning. While he didn’t dominate with volume scoring, his versatility, size, and motor made him indispensable. Let’s take a look at why he’s a classic sleeper pick with real utility.
Basic Stats (2024-2025): 35.4 MPG, 18.9 PPG, 4.4 APG, 9.6 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 2.6 TO/G, 49.6% FG, 37.7 3P%
Pros:
Defensive Versatility
Can guard 1-3 with quick feet and strong frame.
Smart defender; uses length and size to contest & close out hard without fouling.
Always takes opposing team’s best perimeter scorer; uses his quick lateral movement and discipline.
Catch & Shoot
Reliable Floor Spacer; forces defenders to close out and opens drives for teammates.
Consistent release point on spot-ups; hard to impact shooting motion.
Nearly 35% from three coming off the catch on high usage.
Elite Rebounding Position
Crashes the glass very well for a guard; nearly averages double-double rebounds.
Uses timing, technique, and intensity to anticipate the ball.
Averaged 1.5 ORPG, creating many second chance points and extra possessions.
Transition Threat
Fills lanes hard and uses athleticism to finish above the rim in the open court. Showtime finisher.
Turns defense into offense efficiently with great intensity and quick pace.
.Cons:
Ball-Handling
Turnover-prone; doesn’t handle full-court pressure or aggressive hedges well.
Has limited handle under pressure; doesn’t create consistent separation in open floor.
Inconsistent Shooting Off of Screens
Hit only 27% of threes off screens this season—tends to rush mechanics when on the move.
Struggles coming off of curls and dribble handoffs.
Finishing through contact
Relies on finesse finishes instead of drawing fouls
Tries to avoid contact near the rim and settles for tough floaters or reverse layups.
Age
Will be 24 before first NBA game; uncertainty about his long-term growth & development.
Might be a plug-and-play guy over a development long-term project.
Final Take: Nique Clifford is a high-motor, athletic wing who brings defensive versatility, rebounding, and smart decision-making to the floor. His improved shooting and ability to play in transition make him a strong fit in modern systems. If he can grow more confident creating his own shot and finishing in traffic, he’ll be a dependable rotation player at the next level.
Draft Projection: Mid to Late Second Round Pick
Player Comp: Khris Middleton