Ex-Colorado Guard Nique Clifford Becomes First Round Pick in NBA Draft

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated Jun 26, 2025 11:59 AM ET

From Boulder to the Big Time: Nique Clifford Drafted by Kings in First Round

The Colorado kid is headed to California, but he’s taking Buffaloes pride with him.

On a night full of emotion and energy at the 2025 NBA Draft, Colorado basketball fans had a reason to erupt. Former Buffaloes guard Nique Clifford, who began his college journey in Boulder before transferring to Colorado State, was selected 24th overall and immediately traded to the Sacramento Kings.

It was a moment steeped in redemption, perseverance, and state pride. A story that started at CU and ends (for now) on the NBA hardwood.

A Buffalo at Heart

While Clifford’s final collegiate season took place at CSU, where he averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds and 4.4 assists, his roots were planted in Boulder. He spent three formative seasons at CU, developing his craft and earning the loyalty of Buffs Nation. Fans remember his hustle, his lockdown defense, and that signature energy every time he stepped on the court at the CU Events Center.

He may have transferred, but he never turned his back on the black and gold. His draft night suit, proudly emblazoned with patches from CU, CSU and his high school, was a visible testament to his journey.

Nique Clifford repping Colorado Springs, the #CSURams and #CUBuffs with his slick suit jacket tonight. He’s also got some custom Nikes with his slogan OTN (stands for On Top Next) on them and CSU brought him his Mountain West championship ring to rock as well. https://t.co/GwDgkx8Kow
— Tyler King (@King_TylerB) June 25, 2025

The Full Package on the Floor

Clifford brings a complete toolset to the NBA. Standing at 6-foot-6 with a 6-foot-10 wingspan, he’s the kind of two-way player that fits seamlessly into today’s NBA. His rebounding from the guard spot is elite, his defense is switchable and suffocating, and his improved shooting, nearly 39% on catch-and-shoot threes, makes him more than just a role player.

He’s not just a grinder; he’s a connector. The Kings see him as someone who can step in and contribute immediately, whether that be on the wing, in transition, or crashing the glass.

A Story Buffs Fans Can Believe In

Colorado fans have watched Nique Clifford grow, from a promising local recruit at The Vanguard School in Colorado Springs, to a quiet freshman at CU, to a centerpiece at CSU.

The excitement in Boulder is real. This is a win for CU basketball, for Colorado hoopers, and for a community that watched Clifford evolve with pride. Even as he dawns a Sacramento jersey, he remains a symbol of what’s possible for players who stay grounded and put in the work.

Buffs Nation, stay locked in. Clifford’s NBA chapter is just beginning, and if his past tells us anything, it’s that he’ll be ready to write another incredible story. From the Flatirons to the league, he’s carrying Colorado on his back.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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