Sacramento Kings rookie Nique Clifford has drawn attention not just for being a first-round pick, but also for his jersey number. Clifford chose No. 5, a number previously worn by De’Aaron Fox before Fox was traded to the San Antonio Spurs. At his introductory press conference, Clifford addressed the decision, saying, “Yeah, I know there was a little bit of controversy around that number, but honestly it was just the best available number.” He added that the number holds personal meaning for him: “I saw the meanings of the number five, and it represented personal growth and change.” Clifford also noted that the number connects with his goals and carries a biblical meaning associated with grace and kindness, according to Sacramento Bee.
Clifford's teammate Maxime Raynaud was also introduced at the press conference. Former King and current analyst Doug Christie spoke to the Kings Herald about Raynaud’s potential, noting his shooting and versatility. "His size, his skillset, I think with Domas can mix in a big way because Domas shot 40% from above the arc and 50% in the corner," Christie said. Clifford also drew attention with a pendant featuring ‘Clifford the Big Red Dog,’ which could become a signature symbol if his time in Sacramento proves successful, as reported by Kings Herald.
Nique Clifford and Babacar Raynaud will make their court debut at the Las Vegas Summer League starting on Thursday, as the Sacramento Kings prepare for the post-De’Aaron Fox era. Clifford chose to wear No. 5, the same number Fox wore before being traded to the San Antonio Spurs. “I wore five at my pro day, actually, so I’ve worn it once before and had a decent pro day, so I thought I’d give it a go, and we’re going to make it work,” Clifford said. The Kings have a history of retiring jersey numbers, and No. 5 carries expectations. “There was a definitely great player that wore it, so there are high expectations on that number, but I’m ready,” he added, as mentioned by Sacramento Bee.
