Kings' Nique Clifford suffers ankle injury in loss to Nets

Rookie guard ruled out after leaving game in the fourth quarter

Mar. 23, 2026 at 12:09am

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Sacramento Kings rookie guard Nique Clifford suffered an ankle injury during Sunday's game against the Brooklyn Nets and was ruled out for the remainder of the contest. Clifford had contributed 7 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists and a steal in 27 minutes of play before leaving the game with 10:58 remaining in the fourth quarter.

Why it matters

The Kings are already dealing with injuries in their backcourt, with Killian Hayes also leaving the game due to injury. Clifford's absence will force the team to rely more heavily on Malik Monk and Devin Carter to handle point guard duties for the rest of the game.

The details

Clifford appeared to suffer the ankle injury, though the exact nature and severity of the injury is not yet known. He was replaced by Malik Monk and did not return to the game.

  • Clifford left the game with 10:58 remaining in the fourth quarter.

The players

Nique Clifford

A rookie guard for the Sacramento Kings who suffered an ankle injury during Sunday's game against the Brooklyn Nets.

Malik Monk

A Kings guard who replaced Clifford after he left the game with an injury.

Killian Hayes

A Kings player who also left the game due to injury, further depleting the team's backcourt.

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What they’re saying

“Sacramento Kings rookie Nique Clifford just went to the locker room with an apparent ankle injury.”

— Jason Anderson, Reporter

What’s next

The Kings will provide an update on the severity of Clifford's ankle injury in the coming days.

The takeaway

The Kings' backcourt depth has been tested by injuries, with both Clifford and Hayes leaving Sunday's game. The team will need to rely on players like Malik Monk and Devin Carter to step up in their absence.