Former CSU Star Nique Clifford Gets His First NBA Minutes in Denver

CSU Alum Nique Clifford Makes His First NBA Appearance in Colorado

Monday night was a bit of a homecoming for one CSU alum.

When the Denver Nuggets took on the Sacramento Kings on November 3rd, Dominique “Nique” Clifford marked his professional debut back in his home state of Colorado.

Clifford had a successful collegiate career in the Centennial State, helping lead CSU's basketball team to another March Madness appearance at the end of the 2024-2025 season.

The six foot guard was selected 24th overall in the 2025 draft, going to play for the Sacramento Kings.

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Read More: Nique Clifford Makes CSU History in NBA Draft

Sacramento Kings Start Rookie Nique Clifford in Regular Season Opener

The Sacramento Kings made an interesting move during their regular season opener by playing their rookie Nique Clifford.

Clifford started in place of Keegan Murray.

This move cemented Clifford’s place in CSU history as one of the school’s first NBA rookies to be on the starting five for a regular season opener.

Read More: CSU Alum Nique Clifford Injured In Sacramento Debut

Kings Coach Doug Christie Praises Clifford’s Skill Set

Sacramento Kings Head Coach Doug Christie had nothing but praise for his rookie ahead of the Monday night game.

“I just love having him in our uniform,” Christie said.

“He’s an incredible kid…incredible skill set.”

Defensive Strength and Game Awareness Stand Out

With just a few games under his belt, the Colorado native continues to make an impact within his new organization.

“It’s difficult enough to play, and when you’re able to try to solve a problem in a game, that’s pretty good, especially for a rookie.”

Christie says that the 23-year-old rookie’s biggest strength is his defensive reading.

Denver Fans Cheer as Nique Clifford Checks In

While Clifford didn't start in the game, he did get put in during the first quarter. As soon as the announcer said that the rookie was heading to the court, the crowd of Nuggets fans cheered.

A welcome homecoming for a Colorado boy.

Clifford’s Performance: Points, Minutes, and Highlights During First Pro Game In Colorado

Overall, Clifford saw 18 minutes and 37 seconds of game play.

The Kings knew that this player could make a strong impact on the court and could thrive almost anywhere during gameplay.

He scored eight points during the game and had some electric plays that had even the most diehard Nuggets fans impressed.

Final Score: Nuggets Edge Out Kings 130–124

In the end, the Kings fell to the Nuggets, 124 to 130. Jokić's ferocity on the court helped Denver sustain a slight but consistent lead throughout the game.

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