Amir Khan’s Rise as McNeese Basketball’s Viral Sensation

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Amir “Aura” Khan, a student manager for the McNeese State Cowboys men’s basketball team, has become a viral sensation during the NCAA Tournament, thanks in part to his infectious pregame rituals and custom apparel featuring his likeness.

Khan was seen sporting socks adorned with his face while on the sidelines during McNeese’s first-round game, a detail that unexpectedly captured the hearts of fans and players alike. “It’s crazy. Because I never would have imagined this would have ever happened,” Khan said after the game. “I appreciate them for wearing it. I appreciate all the love and support. Seeing them wearing it means a lot to me.”

The socks and matching retro T-shirts featuring Khan’s image are available for purchase through Rock’em Socks, an apparel brand that saw a spike in interest following Khan’s newfound fame. Khan has been labeled a “celebrity” at McNeese, where his pregame routine energizes the players as they prepare for the court.

Will Wade, head coach of the Cowboys, described Khan as “the man, the myth, the legend,” emphasizing the excitement his presence brings to the team. “It gets our guys excited; it gets our guys off to a fast start,” Wade noted. “If you don’t get off to a good start, it’s hard to play well.”

Khan, who hails from Lake Charles, Louisiana, is in his second season managing the squad. He gained widespread recognition after a video of him leading the team through the tunnel with a boom box went viral last month. McNeese (27-6) clinched the Southland Conference title for the second consecutive year and secured a spot as the No. 12 seed in the NCAA Men’s Tournament.

In 2025, the team made history by capturing its first-ever tournament victory. “We made history. No matter what happens from here, you can’t take that away,” Khan said, reflecting on the significance of their achievement after being eliminated by Georgia in last year’s first round. “I think that’s what makes the moment so special.”

As the Cowboys gear up for their first-round matchup against No. 4 Purdue, Khan remains focused on the team’s journey. “Whatever opportunities come from this, I’m definitely going to try to make the most out of it, but I’m just focused on March Madness. I really want this team to win—it would mean the world to me,” he stated.

Khan’s influence extends beyond the court, as he has signed several name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, becoming the first student manager to do so. National brands like Buffalo Wild Wings and Insomnia Cookies have partnered with him, further increasing his presence in the sports world.

His rap performance during a team walkout, where he delivered lyrics from Lud Foe’s song, became a highlight, amassing millions of views online, including significant attention from College Basketball Content and Barstool Sports. Although Khan was initially unaware of the viral moment, he expressed gratitude for the support. “I didn’t really process it until Monday night… and I was like, ‘Man, what’s going on?'”

As the Cowboys prepare to take on robust opponents in the tournament, Khan’s optimism shines through. “We’ve already shown that we can win on that stage, so whoever we get matched up with, we’ll be ready and able to compete with them,” he asserted.