Amir “Aura” Khan, the McNeese State Cowboys basketball team student manager has signed his first NIL deal
We examine all details about McNeese State Cowboys manager Amir “Aura” Khan, who is trending during the 2025 March Madness.
Who is Amir “Aura” Khan as McNeese State Cowboys basketball team student manager signs NIL deal after his video goes viral on Instagram
McNeese State Cowboys’ Men’s Basketball manager, Amir “Aura” Khan, has etched his name into March Madness history. Widely recognized for his infectious energy, Khan has captivated audiences through viral videos showcasing his pregame ritual—leading the team out of the locker room with a boombox in hand, setting the tone with music, and rallying the players as they follow his lead.
Why is Amir “Aura” Khan going viral?
Amir “Aura” Khan, a senior at McNeese State University, has gained widespread attention as the student manager of the men’s basketball team. His infectious energy, signature boombox, and unwavering support have made him an integral part of the team’s success. Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Khan has been a constant presence, motivating players and adding to the team’s spirit.
Amir’s contributions were especially recognized when McNeese secured a spot in the NCAA tournament as a 12th seed after winning the Southland Conference. Despite his growing popularity, Khan remains humble, attributing his confidence to the support of his coaches, teammates, and loved ones. In an interview, he emphasized the importance of self-belief, stating that success begins with the mindset one cultivates each morning.
The broadcast crew just said that Amir Khan has received 135 phone calls with NIL offers over the last few weeks and is making well into the six figures. March Madness is the best.pic.twitter.com/4k5e0dFSS1
— Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) March 22, 2025
Khan’s viral moment came in February when a video captured him leading the team out of the tunnel with his boombox. During a game against Texas A&M Corpus Christi, he unexpectedly sang along to Lud Foe’s “In & Out,” surprising his teammates and solidifying his status as a social media sensation. His energy earned him the nickname “Aura,” reflecting the positive atmosphere he brings to the locker room.
Beyond his role with McNeese, Khan has made history as the first student manager to sign brand deals, partnering with companies like Tick Pick, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Insomnia Cookies. He has also inspired merchandise, including T-shirts and socks featuring his image and quotes. During the March Madness, Khan remained at the heart of McNeese’s historic journey. The team’s victory over Clemson, marking their first-ever NCAA tournament win, was a moment he cherished deeply.
Nicknamed “Aura,” Khan’s rising profile has provided the opportunity to sell his own T-shirts and made him the first student manager to earn a Name, Image and Likeness deal with Topps Trading Cards.
“The definition of aura. Just in: We’re excited to announce we’ve signed an NIL deal with McNeese State University’s very own Amir “Aura” Khan. The legendary team manager now has his very own trading cards,” Topps said.
However, McNeese’s run was unable to make it past the second round of the tournament, as the 12-seeded Cowboys fell to 4-seeded Purdue to begin Saturday’s action, 76-62.
Khan and his sponsored boombox went viral heading into the tournament as the hype man for the even more unlikely tournament darlings from Lake Charles, Louisiana, becoming the first known basketball manager to receive an NIL deal.
“It’s crazy. Because I never would have imagined this would have ever happened,” Khan said. “I appreciate all the love and support. And seeing them wearing it means a lot to me.”
Khan also received a custom-made Under Armour tracksuit with additional deals from Buffalo Wild Wings, TurboTax and more “all totaling well into the six figures.”
"He is cinema." 🍿
The story behind McNeese student manager Amir "Aura" Khan from @MicheleSteele 👇 pic.twitter.com/1M2fC9VWtF
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) March 22, 2025