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.