Amir Khan’s Boom Box Ritual Sparks Viral Fame at NCAA Tournament

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Amir “Aura” Khan, the student manager for the McNeese State men’s basketball team, has captured the spotlight during the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament with his unique pregame ritual and viral social media presence.

Khan, a senior from Lake Charles, Louisiana, has become a sensation after being recorded leading the Cowboys out of the tunnel while carrying a boombox. This routine gained attention when it coincided with McNeese’s upset victory over Clemson in the tournament’s first round. Khan’s efforts earned him a line of merchandise, including socks and T-shirts emblazoned with his face, available through Rock’em Socks.

“It’s crazy because I never would have imagined this would have ever happened,” Khan said. “I appreciate them for wearing it. I appreciate all the love and support. Seeing them wearing it means a lot to me.”

Head coach Will Wade praised Khan’s impact on the team’s morale, calling him “the man, the myth, the legend” whose pregame enthusiasm energizes the players. “It gets our guys excited, it gets our guys off to a fast start. If you don’t get off to a strong start, it’s hard to play well,” Wade added.

Khan’s journey to fame has been remarkable. With a significant behind-the-scenes role as a student manager, he primarily handles tasks such as shooting rebounding, drying wet spots on the court, and managing jerseys. However, one of his standout contributions is leading the team with his boombox just before games.

On game day, Khan often doesn’t know which song will be playing until the last minute. During a critical game against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, he rapped along to “No Flockin’” by Kodak Black, surprising his teammates and leading to a victory.

“I didn’t know they would play that song, nor did they have any idea that I knew it,” Khan said. “That’s why I think that moment is so special; it was totally spontaneous.”

Khan’s energetic performances attracted attention online, with clips from social media garnering millions of views. Just days later, the buzz translated into opportunities, resulting in Khan signing multiple NIL deals, including partnerships with Buffalo Wild Wings and Insomnia Cookies.

Despite the newfound fame, Khan remains focused on his primary objective: helping McNeese succeed in the tournament. “Whatever opportunities come from this, I’m definitely going to try to make the most out of it, but I won’t let it distract me from what’s important,” he stated.

Khan expressed confidence in the team, pointing to their previous performances against top-ranked opponents as evidence of their ability to compete. McNeese, coming off a season where they clinched the Southland Conference title for the second consecutive year, is aiming to leave a lasting legacy in this year’s tournament.

“We definitely want to make history again. No matter what happens from here, what we achieved last year can’t be taken away,” Khan said, reflecting on McNeese’s previous NCAA experience.

The Cowboys, holding a 27-6 record, are set to take on No. 4 seed Purdue Saturday as they continue their tournament journey. Khan’s electrifying presence both on and off the court is sure to remain a significant part of McNeese’s story this March.