McNeese State made headlines on March 20, 2025, by pulling off a thrilling upset in the NCAA Tournament. The Cowboys defeated Clemson 69-67 at the Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island. This victory marked McNeese’s first-ever win in the NCAA Tournament, and the excitement was palpable.
After the game, the team celebrated by taking to the streets of Providence. They marched down the road, blasting “Shake Back” by Rio Da Yung Og from a boombox carried by Amir Khan, the team manager who has become a viral sensation. Coach Will Wade described the scene, saying they took Providence by storm, with Khan leading the way and the team feeling energized by the support from fans.
Khan, affectionately known as "Aura," has gained popularity during the tournament, even selling his own T-shirts and securing name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. He expressed his gratitude for the attention, saying it meant a lot to him as a manager to receive such support.
The Cowboys’ defense was impressive, holding Clemson to just 13 points in the first half. This strong start set the tone for the game and ultimately led to their historic win. The team is now preparing for their next challenge against Purdue on Saturday, looking to continue their surprising run in the tournament.
As McNeese State celebrates this landmark achievement, fans and players alike are reveling in the joy of March Madness and the possibilities that lie ahead.