In a draft full of strategic maneuvers and calculated risks, the Sacramento Kings took a decisive step to get their man. By trading into the first round, the Kings made it clear they had identified a prospect worth sacrificing a future asset for, but the full value of their move hinges on how well their new addition fits the team’s direction.
Kings Acquire Nique Clifford, Bolstering Roster with a Versatile Wing
The Sacramento Kings traded the top-16 protected 2027 first-round pick they acquired from the San Antonio Spurs in the De’Aaron Fox trade to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for the No. 24 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. With that selection, the Kings picked guard-forward Nique Clifford, a fifth-year senior out of Colorado State University, widely respected for his all-around game and defensive tenacity.
Clifford’s selection was met with praise from analysts.
Cam Mellor of Pro Football and Sports Network wrote, “Clifford is a rugged, do-it-all wing who plays with a chip on his shoulder and contributes in every phase of the game. The trade-up secures their top player on the board and gives the Kings a valuable asset on both ends of the court.” Mellor awarded the Kings an A-grade, highlighting the importance of landing the player they prioritized most in a highly competitive draft class.
Shooting, defense, and length. No, Kings fans, you’re not dreaming. This regime understands where the league is going.
Nique Clifford is the model. pic.twitter.com/4cr5ATujrL
— Allen Stiles (@The_StilesFiles) June 26, 2025
Statistically, Clifford brings a compelling blend of production and efficiency. In his final season at Colorado State, he averaged 18.9 points per game on 49.6% shooting from the field and 37.7% from 3-point range. Just as impressively, he added 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 steals across 36 games.
His performance earned him First-Team All-Mountain West and All-Mountain West Defensive Team honors, as well as an Associated Press All-American Honorable Mention.
What separates Clifford from others in this class is his rare statistical profile. He was the only player in the nation during the 2024–25 season to average at least 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists per game, showcasing his multifaceted impact on the court.
He ranked 14th nationally in both rebounding and double-doubles, with 15. His 8.1 defensive rebounds per game placed him third in the country. This level of production, especially from a 6-foot-5 wing, is indicative of both high motor and versatility.
Oklahoma City received a B grade for the trade, a fair outcome considering they moved down in exchange for a future asset without surrendering much current value. However, it is the Kings’ boldness that could pay off sooner.
Clifford’s Immediate Impact and Pro Comparisons
Clifford is already 23 years old and enters the league with five years of college experience, making him a candidate to contribute immediately. His maturity and developed game are often seen as beneficial for NBA readiness compared to younger, less experienced prospects.
As Mellor noted, “The Kings coveted gritty, hard-nosed players and Clifford checks those boxes.” In a draft where potential often overshadows polish, the Kings opted for proven performance. Clifford’s leadership in an NCAA Tournament upset over Memphis further cemented his readiness for the professional level.
With comparisons to the likes of Jalen Williams and Kyle Kuzma surfacing, and a game that touches every area of the stat sheet, Clifford is poised to be more than just a rotation piece for the Kings. Sacramento identified their guy, went up to get him, and now stands to benefit from one of the more calculated, high-floor moves in the 2025 NBA Draft.
