Nique Clifford
Clifford is an older wing prospect with an all-around skill set and high-level feel for the game. After spending 3 seasons at Colorado University, Clifford starred for Colorado State in his last two years of college. He took a major leap in almost every statistical category this past season, showing that he may still be improving despite spending 5 years in college. What’s most enticing about Clifford is he doesn’t have any glaring flaws as a prospect. He shot around 38% from three in his last two seasons, has high level passing vision, can make plays off the dribble, and rebounds extremely well for a wing. Clifford also projects as a solid defender at the next level. All things considered, Clifford’s older age doesn’t scare me enough for me to rank him outside the lottery.
Strengths:
Efficient scorer from all three levels. Improved as a shooter and scorer every year of college.
Can score or create for his teammates off the dribble. Overall a versatile offensive player.
Impressive passer who is comfortable running pick and roll.
Excellent rebounder from the wing position. Plays bigger than his size.
Solid length and instincts on the defensive end. Projects as an above-average wing defender at the next level. Guards well in isolation and can provide help-side rim protection.
Twitchy finisher around the rim who can elevate and finish over defenders.
Weaknesses:
Can improve his efficiency as a spot-up threat, as he’s more comfortable shooting off the dribble.
Had some high turnover games in his senior season while getting accustomed to being a high-usage ball-handler.
Could benefit from packing on more size to his frame in order to guard bigger forwards at the next level.