Nique Clifford wants to take on leadership role in Year 2

After an encouraging rookie campaign, Nique Clifford is entering his second NBA season with a clearer understanding of what he can bring to the Sacramento Kings.

The 24th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft averaged 8.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 0.9 steals across 75 games as a rookie, establishing himself as a reliable two-way contributor in the making.

Now, as the Kings continue their NBA Summer League schedule in Las Vegas, Clifford is focused on expanding his game while embracing a leadership role with a younger roster.

Despite Sacramento’s uneven Summer League results, Clifford believes the experience is about preparing for the regular season.

“It’s been a lot of learning for all of us,” Clifford told Sactown Sports’ Jason Ross in an exclusive interview. “Trying to figure out how to play together, trying to figure out how to win together, learning each other’s games. This is the time to grow and go through some of those mistakes right now, so that when you get to the season, you’re a little more prepared.”

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 11: Nique Clifford #5 of the Sacramento Kings dribbles the ball against the Charlotte Hornets at Golden 1 Center on March 11, 2026 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) NBA Draft Lottery standings

More from Nique Clifford

Nique Clifford says his versatility remains his biggest strength, but he also recognizes there’s another level he can reach offensively.

“I feel like my versatility is what I bring to the table,” Clifford said. “The defense, the rebounding, all those little things that I can control, that’s kind of what I’m focused on trying to bring to the table. The offensive side will come. I’ve got to be more aggressive at times. I got to be more assertive.”

Finding that balance between letting the game develop naturally and attacking has become one of his biggest offseason priorities.

“I do like to let the game come to me, but there are times where I can get lost because I’m not being as aggressive and assertive as I need to be,” Clifford admitted. “Coming out with an aggressive mindset, that’s going to be the key.”

Clifford also believes his ability to play multiple positions could open more opportunities next season, including handling some point guard responsibilities.

“I feel like that’s where my versatility comes into play,” he said. “One through three, I feel like I can play any of those positions.”

Away from the court, Clifford spent time working out with Boston Celtics guard Derrick White, another Colorado product whose journey has inspired him.

“It was just good to get in front of a guy who’s done it at the highest level,” Clifford said. “He’s a great guy to learn from and somebody I feel like I can go to and ask questions.”

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 01: Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics shoots over Nique Clifford #5 and Drew Eubanks #19 of the Sacramento Kings in the first half of an NBA basketball game at Golden 1 Center on January 01, 2026 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

With one NBA season now behind him, Nique Clifford has also noticed a change in his role around the Summer League team.

“I do feel like more of a vet this year,” Clifford said. “I’m trying to take on some of those leadership qualities, helping the young guys figure out certain things.”

He also praised fellow young Kings prospects Darius Acuff Jr., Maxime Raynaud and Emanuel Sharp, calling them “all winners” who bring defensive intensity and winning habits.

As for the rest of the offseason, Clifford’s focus is simple.

“Just get better,” he said. “I’m going to be in the gym a lot, just trying to grow and get ready for this next season.”

Listen to The Carmichael Dave Show with Jason Ross from 6 – 10 a.m. PDT, Monday through Friday, on Sactown Sports 1140.

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What is the next Sacramento Kings Offseason Event?

The Sacramento Kings will conclude their Las Vegas Summer League slate on Friday afternoon when they face the Charlotte Hornets at 3:30 PM PT at UNLV’s Pavilion.

Sactown Sports will be ON SITE in Las Vegas ALL WEEK LONG from July 12-19th! Be sure to remain locked into Sactown Sports for your Sacramento Kings Summer League news, analysis, and much more!

Upcoming Sacramento Kings Offseason Schedule

• Thursday, July 9th – Sunday, July 19th – NBA Las Vegas Summer League
• August TBD – 2026-27 NBA Schedule release
• Late September – NBA training camps begin

2026 Sacramento Kings Las Vegas Summer League Schedule

• Friday, July 17th: vs. Charlotte Hornets – 3:30 p.m. PT (Prime)

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