Nique Clifford Drafted 24th by Kings After Trade

Nique Clifford, a standout from Colorado State named after Dominique Wilkins, was selected 24th overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2025 NBA Draft after the Kings traded a protected future first-round pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder for his rights. Clifford wore a purple suit on draft night in tribute to Kobe Bryant and was visibly emotional upon hearing his name called. He completed a five-year college career, averaging 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists as a senior, and turned down lucrative transfer offers to remain at Colorado State. Clifford's selection makes him one of the few mid-major players recently drafted in the first round. His journey has drawn praise for his perseverance and loyalty to his program. This marks Colorado State's second first-round NBA pick in three years.