Image Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Nique Clifford Draft Projection: Scouting His Position for the 2025 NBA Draft

Experienced guard eyes NBA breakthrough moment

Image Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

Nique Clifford’s road to the 2025 NBA Draft has been anything but smooth, but consistency and growth have finally earned him league-wide attention.

A four-star high school recruit, Clifford began his college career at Colorado but struggled to find consistent playing time with the Buffaloes. A 2023 transfer to Colorado State became the turning point, unlocking the version of Clifford scouts had been waiting to see.

NEWS: Colorado State wing Nique Clifford has received a green room invite to attend the NBA Draft with his family, a source told ESPN. pic.twitter.com/eNmZFDisPG
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) June 19, 2025

Nique Clifford Scouting Report: Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

Nique Clifford dominated the boards in his final NCAA season, averaging 9.6 rebounds per game, ranking among the top 15 in all of the Division I.

Clifford is also a versatile defender, allowing just 0.791 PPP on defense, which is 78th percentile nationally. He can guard more than 1 position with solid footwork, strength, and awareness.

Weaknesses

At 23, Clifford’s age may work against him, with some teams favoring younger prospects who offer long-term developmental upside. They are more likely to see him as more NBA ready but with little growth potential.

Clifford has struggled with shot creation under defensive pressure, often resorting to slow releases or awkward contested attempts. While efficient in isolation, his off the dribble shooting is inconsistent, with slower release and less elevation.

Nique Clifford’s Stats and Achievements at Colorado State Rams

In his breakout year at Colorado State, the 23-year-old averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists, becoming the team’s central force on both ends.

Clifford’s accolades (2024-25)

Nique Clifford became the first guard at Colorado State University since 2012 to average 18+ points and 9+ rebounds in a season.
Mountain West Tournament MVP
MWC All-Defensive Team
First Team All-Mountain West Conference
MWC All-Tournament Team
2× MWC Player of the Week (Feb 12 & Mar 4, 2025)

Nique Clifford’s Draft Projection

The versatile guard has drawn interest from the Washington Wizards (No. 18) and Atlanta Hawks (No. 22) in pre-draft chatter. His projection range suggests a common slot of pick 18-22.