Is ‘Aura’ Joining the Transfer Portal? McNeese’s Viral Manager Amir Khan Set to Follow Will Wade to NC State

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — March Madness has a knack for turning unexpected figures into overnight sensations. Just look at Amir “Aura” Khan, a manager for McNeese State’s basketball team. He’s captured the hearts of fans even though he doesn’t step on the court.

In the spirit of the tournament, Khan showed up in his signature Under Armour gear, rocking the nickname “AURA” bright on his back. Despite McNeese’s quick exit after a loss to Purdue, this season was historic — marking the first NCAA tournament win in the school’s history.

Even with McNeese’s journey ending, Khan’s fame is just beginning. His recent rise saw him field over 135 calls regarding name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. Businesses are eager to leverage his unique story. There’s never been a college team manager who managed to earn money in this way, but Khan’s earnings have reportedly surged into the six figures.

Looking ahead, Khan is set to graduate this fall with a degree in sports management, but he isn’t leaving basketball behind. Newly appointed NC State coach Will Wade plans to bring him on staff as a graduate manager. Khan expressed excitement about this opportunity, emphasizing his passion for basketball and his openness to future possibilities.

Interestingly, Khan’s experience mirrors that of other notable sports figures. For instance, Sister Jean from Loyola Chicago became a household name just a few years back, illustrating the transformative power of March Madness. This tournament can spotlight players, coaches, and even managers, sometimes in unexpected ways. A recent survey by The Harris Poll indicated that 77% of Americans tune in for the tournament, highlighting its cultural significance every March.

Khan’s week was surreal, culminating in a moment where he shared a seat with famed director Spike Lee during the game. “I never expected any attention, let alone nationwide,” Khan reflected. He’s captured the essence of March Madness: an adventure where anything can happen, and underdogs can shine.

As the tournament continues, there’s buzz about the annual Manager Games, where team managers compete in a friendly format. Khan mentioned their team is currently leading in votes to participate, providing yet another opportunity for him to showcase his talents on a national stage.

Khan’s story exemplifies how March Madness isn’t just about the athletes; it’s a collective experience filled with memorable faces and stories. As he steps into a new chapter at NC State, it seems this won’t be the last time we hear about Amir Khan in the world of basketball.

Source link