DeMar DeRozan makes predictions about rookie Neek Clifford.
The Sacramento Kings recently made headlines for signing veteran guard Russell Westbrook ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season.
Westbrook has already changed the Kings, but let’s put that aside and focus on rookie Neek Clifford, the 24th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Clifford already has a wealth of experience thanks to his five years in the NCAA. But what does Kings star DeMar DeRozan think of Clifford?
DeRozan gave his honest thoughts on the rookie to the media after a recent practice session.
“How smooth he is. He’s very mature and his skill set is smooth. Having that foundation already, he’s going to get better and better as time goes on,” DeRozan told reporters.
As a 23-year-old rookie, fans were clearly skeptical of the Kings’ decision to select him in the 2025 NBA Draft.
But it’s quickly becoming clear that Clifford could be one of the biggest steals in this draft class.
DeRozan continued to praise the rookie and made his expectations clear for Clifford, predicting that he will rise to NBA stardom sooner rather than later.
“I’m excited for him, not just this year, but for his future. I truly believe he can be a star in this league and what he can do,” DeRozan continued.
“Great kid, listen up. That’s the secret to success,” the Kings star concluded.
Clifford averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game in his final year in the NCAA.
If Clifford can achieve even half of that average in his rookie year, he certainly has a bright future in the league.