Nique Clifford: A Dying Breed in Basketball
Nique Clifford identifies himself as a “dying breed” among basketball players, reflecting on his unique journey in a sport increasingly driven by transfers and lucrative opportunities. Many players have experienced similar success to him — those who committed to mid-major universities only to achieve high NBA draft status, including notable names like Steph Curry, Damian Lillard, and Pascal Siakam. However, Clifford’s story raises questions about whether new generations will still see such success without succumbing to the siren call of transferring for better financial incentives.
Choosing Loyalty Over Money
After an impressive senior year at Colorado State — following three seasons as a role player at Colorado — Clifford faced pivotal choices. Following mixed evaluations during the NBA Draft process, he considered several offers from top-tier programs, with some schools willing to pay upwards of $1 million. Despite these temptations, Clifford chose to remain loyal to Colorado State, stating,
“It was not about the money. It was a long-term investment.”
He valued the supportive environment and coaching staff at CSU and believed that returning was the best step for his continued development.
From Uncertainty to Stardom
Now a prominent candidate for a first-round selection in the upcoming NBA Draft, Clifford represents one of a dwindling number of players who have succeeded without switching to a high-major program. Recent mock drafts have shown that many mid-major stars opt to transfer to more prestigious schools, aiming to showcase their talents on a bigger stage — a pathway that can sometimes lead to NBA opportunities but not without its uncertainties.
In March 2023, when he entered the transfer portal, Clifford was not yet on NBA scouts’ radar. Though he became a starter early in his college career, his expected role as a dynamic playmaker didn’t materialize, leading him to search for better options for his final college season.
A Transformative Season
He consistently filled the role of a traditional wing, but with a disappointing three-point shooting percentage of only 28.8% in his junior year, he struggled to make a mark. His then-coach, Ali Farokhmanesh, who was promoted to the head coach position, recognized Clifford’s potential and reached out immediately after he entered the portal.
Farokhmanesh’s confidence in Clifford, combined with the desire for a fresh start away from Colorado, led to Clifford’s return to Colorado State this past summer. Under Farokhmanesh’s guidance, they meticulously focused on refining his shooting technique, which included addressing inconsistencies in his footwork and shot mechanics.
Success on the Court
As the 2023-24 season began, Clifford thrived, significantly improving his game. The Rams enjoyed a strong start, winning their first nine games, including a victory over highly ranked Creighton and defeating his former team, Colorado. This breakout performance saw Clifford’s scoring nearly double, and he became a crucial leader on the court, embodying the coaching staff’s expectations.
Despite a rocky start to the season at 6-5, Clifford’s dedication and leadership shone through as he led the team with unwavering support, prioritizing team success over personal accolades. His ability to handle the pressure and criticism resonated with his coach, who noted Clifford’s remarkable commitment to the team, even amidst doubts from family and friends.
A Bright Future Ahead
The Rams ended the regular season with a strong seven-game winning streak, highlighted by Clifford’s remarkable 36-point game against Boise State. His conference tournament performances, averaging 25 points and 10.3 rebounds, secured their NCAA Tournament spot and culminated in an upsetting victory over Memphis before they narrowly missed out on the Sweet 16.
Clifford is now regarded as a potential valuable asset in the professional league, entering the draft with confidence in his ability to make a difference. Still, he understands the realities of the evolving landscape of college basketball, where loyalty can be scarce as students opt to transfer for perceived better opportunities.
Words of Wisdom
Reflecting on his journey, Clifford encourages future players to consider the importance of staying with a program that fosters growth and development, rather than chasing immediate financial rewards. He underscores the importance of loyalty and cultivating a strong team culture that supports shared aspirations for success:
“If you’re already in a great situation, I would definitely not recommend risking your stock for some money.”
