College basketball’s newest fan favorite isn’t sinking three-pointers or blocking shots; he’s carrying a boombox and electrifying crowds before the ball even tips. Amir “Aura” Khan, McNeese State’s viral student manager, has captured the nation’s heart during the 2025 NCAA Tournament with his infectious energy and pre-game rituals that turned the Cowboys’ underdog run into must-see TV.
As head coach Will Wade prepares to take the reins at NC State, rumors are swirling that Khan may follow suit, sparking a firestorm across social media. The potential move has divided basketball fans, raising questions about the evolving landscape of college athletics, where even team managers are becoming household names with lucrative endorsement deals.
The Viral Sensation and His NIL Success
Khan’s influence at McNeese extended far beyond a typical student manager role. His charismatic personality and leadership made him integral to the team’s identity. Following McNeese’s NCAA Tournament run, Khan secured multiple NIL deals, proving that even off-court figures can benefit from college basketball’s growing marketing landscape.
NEW: Viral McNeese State manager Amir “Aura” Khan is expected to follow Will Wade to NC State, @MattNorlander reports‼️https://t.co/TFdnRd1WiR pic.twitter.com/uC7LnnzzbZ
— On3 (@On3sports) March 22, 2025
His six-figure endorsement deals and appearances with stars like Spike Lee fueled the buzz surrounding him. As NIL opportunities expand beyond just players, Khan’s rise exemplifies how the definition of “valuable team member” is evolving in college athletics. If finalized, his move to NC State could further cement his brand as a one-of-a-kind figure in basketball.
Fans Debate the Manager Transfer Phenomenon
The rumors of Khan following Wade to NC State sparked mixed reactions. Some embrace his passion and see it as a well-deserved opportunity, believing he can continue making an impact in the locker room and beyond. His ability to boost team morale and engage with fans makes him a unique asset for any program.
However, others criticize the move, questioning whether a student manager “transferring” is taking the portal era too far. Social media was flooded with comments suggesting he should pursue a “real job” rather than following a coach as if he were a player. This discourse highlights how unconventional roles in college basketball are increasingly gaining attention.
Khan’s situation mirrors other unexpected storylines developing across college basketball. Sister Jean became Loyola Chicago’s spiritual icon during their 2018 Final Four run, while Georgia’s “Spike Squad” student section leaders have garnered the following. Meanwhile, Duke’s Cameron Crazies continue their tradition of organized student support that transcends any single personality.
As college basketball evolves in the NIL era, the boundaries between players, coaches, and support staff continue to blur. Khan’s journey represents a new frontier where passion and personality can create opportunities previously unimaginable.
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Whether he lands at NC State or charts a different PA, the “Aura” has already made his mark on the spot, proving that sometimes the most significant impact comes from those without their names on the back of jerseys.
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