Colorado State’s Nique Clifford announced Wednesday on social media that he has declared for this year’s NBA draft.
The Colorado Springs native played one season at CSU after three years at Colorado. If he decides to pull out of the draft, similar to what Isaiah Stevens did last year, he has one year of eligibility remaining.
“I first and foremost want to thank God for everything he has put me through to be in the position that I am in. I am grateful and blessed with the support system I have from my family and friends,” Clifford wrote on social media. “I also want to thank my coaches and teammates for trusting in me and allowing me to be successful. I truly appreciate everyone who has supported me through this journey. Finally, I want to thank CSU and our fans for always showing love. With that being said, I will be entering my name in the 2024 NBA draft.”
In three seasons in Boulder, Clifford played in 82 games and started 50, averaging 5.9 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game his final season with the Buffs.
He immediately made an impact at CSU, where he helped lead the Rams to the NCAA Tournament by averaging 12.2 points, a team-high 7.6 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game. He had a team-high 28 dunks during the season and was a third-team all-Mountain West Conference selection.
Clifford has until June 16 to decide to continue on the draft path or return to college.
If he doesn’t return to CSU, it adds another roster spot for the Rams to fill. Five players from last year’s team graduated — Stevens, Joel Scott, Patrick Cartier, Joe Palmer and Josiah Strong. Four players have entered the transfer portal — Tavi Jackson, Javonte Johnson, Kyle Evans and Jack Payne.
With four freshmen signed for next season, the Rams currently have five scholarships available for transfers. If Clifford doesn’t return, CSU will have another scholarship to offer.
