Nique Clifford, a 6-foot-6 wing from Colorado State, has drawn attention as a potential 2025 NBA Draft sleeper due to his athleticism, defensive prowess, and do-it-all ability. The 23-year-old impressed during his senior season, posting 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.
He shot 49.6% from the floor and 37.7% from beyond the arc. A two-time All-Mountain West selection, Clifford also earned MWC All-Defense and MWC Tournament MVP honors. With the tools to defend multiple positions and contribute on both ends, his NBA-ready game makes him an appealing fit for teams seeking immediate-impact role players.
Nique Clifford NBA Draft Profile: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Player Projections
Physical Profile and Background
Clifford is a 6-foot-6, 205-pound wing with a 6-foot-8 wingspan who made his mark as a super senior at Colorado State. His all-around production and leadership were key in leading Colorado State to the NCAA Round 32. His basketball background runs deep—his father, Akai Clifford, played at Widefield High School in Colorado.
Statistical Strengths
Clifford consistently impacted the game across multiple areas, particularly as a rebounder and efficient scorer. Despite being a wing, he pulled down 9.6 rebounds per game, including 8.1 on the defensive end, showing advanced timing and motor.
He thrived as an efficient scorer in various settings, finishing 65.9% of his attempts at the rim and ranking among the national leaders in several advanced offensive metrics. He averaged 1.213 points per possession (PPP) on catch-and-shoot plays, 1.240 PPP in isolation situations, and 1.1 PPP as a pick-and-roll ball handler.
Clifford was also highly productive in transition at 1.453 PPP and as a cutter at 1.361 PPP. From February 8 through the end of the season, he elevated his level of play, averaging 21.5 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game on 51/47/80 shooting splits.
Playmaking and Defense
Clifford’s passing ability stood out for his position. He averaged 4.4 assists per game and a 1.65 assist-to-turnover ratio. His feel for the game and willingness to share the ball allowed him to serve as a secondary facilitator.
Defensively, he proved to be a switchable asset who could guard positions 1 through 3. He combined strong footwork, physicality, and a high IQ to hold opponents to just 0.791 PPP, ranking in the 78th percentile nationally.
Areas of Concern
Clifford’s biggest drawback is his age. At 23 years old, and set to turn 24 during his rookie campaign, he is older than most incoming prospects, which may limit perceptions of his upside and growth potential.
While his shooting volume was solid at 4.9 three-point attempts per game, his ability to create shots off the dribble remains inconsistent. Under defensive pressure, his mechanics can falter, and he is not yet a consistent pull-up threat.
He also sometimes struggles with decision-making, occasionally picking up his dribble early or forcing ill-advised passes. On the defensive side, he can occasionally lose track of assignments when off the ball, leading to lapses in team coverage.
NBA Player Comparisons
Clifford is frequently compared to role players known for toughness, versatility, and winning habits. Christian Braun stands out as a fitting comp due to his two-way impact and ability to fill multiple roles without needing high usage.
KEEP READING: Nique Clifford NBA Draft Projections: 5 Potential Landing Spots for the Colorado State Rams Guard
Josh Hart is another apt comparison, particularly for Clifford’s elite rebounding from the wing and his energy on both ends. His continued improvement as a shooter and defender also draws some parallels to Khris Middleton and Desmond Bane, though those are more aspirational outcomes.
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