The Sacramento Kings had a strong showing in the California Classic and Las Vegas Summer League, allowing their rookies to play alongside some of the returning second-year talents on the roster. Nique Clifford, who was the No. 24 overall pick in last year's draft, played a do-it-all role throughout the tournament, scoring and rebounding at a high rate. On Wednesday, Bleacher Report's Greg Swartz named Clifford as Sacramento's 'Most Disrespected Hidden Gem,' noting his increased level of comfortability towards the end of last season. Clifford showed off his overall game, averaging 13.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.4 steals and shot 35.8 percent from three over his final 28 contests. Overall, Clifford posted averages of 8.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, appearing in 75 games during his rookie campaign. As Swartz noted, Clifford's production rose towards the end of the season, as the former Colorado State standout became more involved after the All-Star break, showing real growth as a defender. In Clifford's first 15 games following the hiatus, he recorded two or more steals in nine of them, including a six-steal performance against the Memphis Grizzlies on Feb. 23. Clifford filled up the stat sheet with 12 points, six rebounds and five assists, while adding his career-high six takeaways. This defensive intensity was on full display at the Summer League as well, as Clifford frequently matched up against opponent's top wing players. In the Kings' opening win in California, Clifford sealed the 79-76 win over the Brooklyn Nets with a go-ahead 3-pointer. Clifford, who had struggled from the field leading up to that shot, talked about staying locked in down the stretch. 'I stay ready... Clifford told media after the game winner. 'He [Darius Acuff Jr.] trusted in me, passed it to me, and I made a play.' Clifford and Acuff have already developed a good relationship, as Clifford explained the story behind him giving up his No. 5 jersey number. After getting drafted, Acuff said that he and Clifford had discussed the jersey dilemma, which ended in the sophomore giving it up to the rookie... for free. 'I was cool with changing my jersey number. I know it meant a lot to him [Acuff], so he hit me up and asked how much I want for it, and I'm a nice guy, so I was gonna show love to the rook,' Clifford said. 'I ain't charge him. I'm trying to build that team chemistry early.' Clifford's multifaceted game and early signs of leadership will be invaluable for a Kings team looking to build around its young core. The Kings are looking to build on their strong Summer League performance, and Clifford will be a key player in their success. With his impressive stats and defensive intensity, Clifford is poised to make a big impact in the upcoming season. As the Kings look to make a push for the playoffs, Clifford's growth and development will be crucial to their success. The young forward has already shown signs of being a leader on the team, and his ability to make plays on both ends of the court will be invaluable to the Kings. With Clifford leading the way, the Kings are looking to make some noise in the NBA this season.