After days of speculation, the Sacramento Kings have officially made their move. the kings major move leads up to the NBA Draft that the Kings were eyeing a trade to land a first-round pick — and they actually delivered. With Colorado State standout still available at No. 24, Sacramento general manager Scott Perry seized the moment, acquiring the pick and the rights to top star in exchange for a top-16 protected 2027 first-round selection originally owned by the San Antonio Spurs. Should that pick not convey, the Spurs will instead receive two second-round picks in 2027.
Top star, 23, enters the NBA with a polished and versatile game. The 6-foot-6½, 202-pound wing was a dominant force for Colorado State as a senior, putting up impressive averages of 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. His shooting numbers also turned heads, as he connected on 49.6% of his field goals and a reliable 37.7% from beyond the arc — proof that he can contribute on both ends of the court. Clifford’s all-around production and size make him a plug-and-play option for a Kings team looking to inject youth, length, and energy into its lineup.
What made the moment even more electric for Kings fans was Clifford’s stylish entrance to the draft stage. Dressed sharply in a regal purple jacket — a fitting nod to his new team’s colors — the confident and composed wing made his first appearance as a King with poise. The visual was symbolic: a new chapter beginning for both Clifford and a Sacramento franchise aiming to build on recent momentum and take the next step in the Western Conference hierarchy.
Sacramento’s aggressive draft-day move signals a strong commitment to developing talent that fits their system. With stars like De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis already in place, adding a high-upside wing like Clifford gives the Kings another two-way weapon to build around. Fans can expect Clifford to bring hustle, versatility, and a chip on his shoulder as he works to carve out a role on a rising team with playoff ambitions. If this draft night is any indication, the Kings are serious about taking big swings — and Clifford might just be the payoff they’ve been waiting for.