NBA Draft Scouting Report: Colorado State's Nique Clifford
Nique Clifford
Guard | Colorado State
Height: 6'6” | Weight: 200 lbs
2024 Draft Age: 22.38
Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Prospect Profile
Clifford spent his first three seasons at the University of Colorado in the Pac-12, where he played a complementary role. From there, he transferred to Colorado State for the current season and has thrived in a new system as a featured piece. As a 6-foot-6 guard, he understands how to use his frame to his advantage plays a smart brand of basketball that truly impacts winning.
An explosive athlete who can finish at the rim with power or touch, Clifford is more than capable of putting pressure on the rim. He’s also a much improved jump shooter and has been l more effective from beyond the arc and the free throw line this season than in years past. The question will become whether or not NBA teams believe in the one-season sample of improvement.
Clifford isn’t an elite passer, but certainly can facilitate and create for others. At the NBA level, he projects to be a complimentary connector that elevates the offensive with both his scoring and passing. He’s also a really good rebounder for a guard and leverages his height to crash the boards effectively.
On the defensive end, Clifford has quite a bit of upside given his positional size. He also reads opposing offensive players well and is understands how to be an impactful team defender within a scheme. He’s a smart defender that can be disruptive on that end of the floor.
Although he’s spent time at two different schools during his collegiate career, Clifford has been able to stay close to home in Colorado where he grew up. The former four-star and top-100 recruit in his high school class has rounded out his game over the past four years and is ready to make an impact at the NBA level. When he transferred to Colorado State, Clifford said it was because he thought it was a better opportunity for him to showcase his talent and have a shot at the NBA. That’s proven to be a great move.
Highlights
Draft Projection
Potential Second-Round Pick in 2024 NBA Draft.
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