Colorado State wing Nique Clifford has been one of the better upperclassmen in this year’s draft. In particular, his sheer versatility on both ends of the floor and his excellent athleticism have allowed Clifford to be very productive this season. Due to his production, Clifford has ranked well in big boards and mock drafts. Unquestionably, his production and talent give him a real chance to go somewhere in the first round this year. Let’s dive into the best fits for Nique Clifford among the teams currently owning first-round picks in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Best Fits For Nique Clifford In The 2025 NBA Draft
Atlanta Hawks
Clifford would be an excellent fit with the Atlanta Hawks, as he can help provide what the team needs. Specifically, the Hawks always need smart, athletic players to surround Trae Young and cover his deficiencies. Standing at six-foot-five, Clifford possesses great athleticism for his position and knows how to leverage it on both ends of the floor. Defensively, Clifford has the versatility to guard multiple positions and do so at a high level. He can serve as a good backup perimeter defender next to Young and hide him from opposing offenses.
On the other end, Clifford knows how to utilize his athleticism to be a threat in transition or cutting off the ball. Undoubtedly, Clifford has the capability to play on or off the ball. Besides his cutting, Clifford has shown some shooting ability and has shot 36.3% on the season beyond the arc with Colorado State. He still can be inconsistent, but Clifford will get many open looks from Young or Jalen Johnson. On the ball, Clifford can provide rim pressure and secondary playmaking that the Hawks can use on the perimeter. Overall, Clifford and what he provides will fit well with the rest of the Hawks roster.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder would also make an excellent fit for Clifford. He fits within the types of players that the Thunder typically draft, and his overall skills would help them. His athleticism and basketball IQ can further strengthen an already-strong Thunder perimeter defense. Clifford’s ability to dribble, pass, and shoot to varying degrees makes him an instant fit on offense as well. Also, the way the Thunder play on both ends of the floor allows Clifford to utilize his strengths to the best of his abilities. His athleticism and talent will do well with the Thunder and its players.
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Minnesota Timberwolves will be a great fit for Clifford and what he brings to the table. The Timberwolves will always need more two-way players on their roster next to Anthony Edwards. In addition to that, the Wolves will have a difficult time retaining players like Nickeil Alexander-Walker due to being over the second apron. Given Clifford’s skill set, he can step in as a backup wing who can play both sides of the court. His athleticism allows Clifford to be a high-level defender and create many transition opportunities to score off of. He has the off-ball capabilities to play next to Edwards and can play on-ball if needed. Additionally, Clifford being an upperclassman means that he will be more ready than the average rookie to contribute immediately. Clifford’s abilities will undoubtedly be of help to the Timberwolves.
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