Throughout the 2024-25 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2025 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Nique Clifford
Position: Guard/Forward
College: Colorado State
Class: Senior
Height/Weight: 6'6", 200 lbs
Birthdate: February 9, 2002
High School: The Vanguard School (CO)
Player Overview
Nique Clifford is an explosive athlete who plays much bigger than his 6'6" frame, thanks to his vertical leap and lateral quickness. After struggling through his first three collegiate seasons, Clifford broke out last year at Colorado State and appears to have taken another leap this season. Known for his physicality and ability to finish through contact, Clifford thrives in transition, where he can showcase his athleticism. His shooting mechanics have improved, allowing him to contribute as a catch-and-shoot threat. Defensively, Clifford's combination of timing, length, and athleticism makes him a versatile perimeter and rim protector. While his offensive game still lacks polish, Clifford’s energy and two-way potential make him an intriguing prospect.
"Clifford is an athletic wing who excels at many little things that contribute to winning. If he continues to progress as an outside shooter, he has the potential to be an effective two-way player and connective piece at the next level." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Elite Athleticism: Explosive vertically and laterally, Clifford consistently makes highlight-worthy plays at both ends of the court.
Improved Shooting Mechanics: Significant strides in his jump shot make him a more reliable catch-and-shoot threat.
Defensive Versatility: Capable of guarding multiple positions, Clifford excels both on the perimeter and at the rim with good timing and awareness.
Transition Finishing: Thrives in fast-break situations, regularly finishing through contact with strong body control and touch.
Rebounding Ability: Plays with energy on the boards, using his athleticism and instincts to secure tough rebounds in traffic.
Concerns
Inconsistent Offensive Production: Clifford’s offensive contributions are still streaky, relying heavily on transition plays and catch-and-shoot opportunities.
Limited Shot Creation: Struggles to create his own shot, often picking up his dribble prematurely when pressured.
Small Sample Size as a Shooter: While his shooting has improved, the sample size of three-point attempts remains limited.
Passing Vision: Clifford has not shown much in terms of playmaking ability, limiting his versatility on offense.
Questions
Shooting Consistency: Can Clifford maintain or improve his shooting efficiency as his volume increases?
Defensive Impact in the NBA: Will his athleticism translate into consistent defensive impact at the next level?
Building on Last Year’s Success: Was his breakout season a fluke, or is it the start of a more consistent upward trajectory?
Bottom Line
Nique Clifford is an athletic specimen with two-way potential, thanks to his explosive athleticism, defensive versatility, and improved shooting. He must continue building on his offensive consistency and expand his playmaking ability to solidify his NBA outlook. While Clifford’s primary value lies in his energy and athleticism, his developing jump shot and defensive presence could make him a valuable rotational piece in the NBA.