The thrill of March Madness extends beyond the players on the court, as the spotlight shines brightly on a new hero: Amir Khan, the team manager for McNeese State’s men’s basketball team. The Cowboys, ranked as the 12th seed in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, pulled off a sensational upset against 5th-seeded Clemson, winning 69-67. This historic victory marks the first NCAA tournament win for the program, capturing the hearts of fans everywhere.

Amir, affectionately known as "Aura" by his teammates, has become a household name for his electrifying pregame tunnel walk alongside the players, famously leading them with a boombox blasting the hit song “No Switch” by NBA YoungBoy. His vibrant personality and infectious energy have turned him into a viral sensation, as clips of his spirited entrance quickly spread across social media platforms.

Breaking Records with NIL Deals

In an exciting twist, Amir Khan has also entered the world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. He became the first student manager in history to secure a deal with Buffalo Wild Wings, who even gifted him a boombox to aid in his team rituals. Additionally, Khan has partnered with other brands like Insomnia Cookies and TickPick, solidifying his status as a creative and inspiring figure in college athletics.

Khan’s popularity soared even higher when the McNeese cheerleaders donned socks emblazoned with his face during the game against Clemson. Fans and teammates alike showed their support for him; guard Sincere Parker sported the same socks on the court. An apparel line featuring these signature socks and a retro throwback T-shirt celebrating Khan is now available for fans eager to commemorate this unique moment in sports history.

Reflecting on his newfound fame, Amir expressed profound gratitude: “It’s crazy. I never would have imagined this happening. I appreciate the support, and seeing them wearing it means a lot to me.”

Khan: The Heart and Soul of the Team

Khan has transcended his traditional role as a student manager to become an essential part of the Cowboys’ success. His pregame ritual is not merely entertainment; it's a crucial component that sets the tone for the players before hitting the court. McNeese head coach Will Wade humorously dubbed Khan “the man, the myth, the legend,” praising his ability to energize the team. “If we don’t get off to a strong start, it’s hard to play well,” Wade explained, emphasizing the importance of Khan’s contributions.

His humorous personality also shines through in a recent promotional feature, where he joked about having “Wilt Chamberlain numbers” in hypothetical manager stats for tasks like rebounding and wiping the floor. His popular quote has even been turned into merchandise, showcasing the blend of humor and charisma that Khan brings to the team.

From Local Roots to National Fame

A senior from Lake Charles, Louisiana, Khan is in his second season as the Cowboys' manager. His journey into the limelight began when a viral video captured him leading the team through the tunnel, holding his boombox high above his head. The video not only showcased his vibrant personality but also the spirit of the McNeese State Cowboys, who have had an incredible season with a 27-6 record, winning the Southland Conference title for the second year in a row.

As McNeese continues its Cinderella journey in the NCAA tournament, Amir Khan remains a beacon of positivity and motivation for his team. As they gear up for their next challenge against 4th-seeded Purdue, Khan emphasized, “We made history. No matter what happens from here, you can’t take that away.” The adventures of Amir Khan are just beginning, promising more excitement and inspiration for fans and players alike as March Madness unfolds.