Kevin Johnson ... former NBA all-star. That's what most people east of the Rockies would initially answer in a round of name association, and they would be correct. Since 2008, Johnson has been the mayor of Sacramento, Calif.

On Aug. 24, he'll also be the grand marshal for the GoPro Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma.

Click it: GoPro Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma tickets, info

Johnson first gained national prominence as a four-year starter at the University of California and then during a 12-year NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Phoenix Suns.
 
“As a native Northern Californian, I am honored to serve as grand marshal of a major motor race being held in my backyard. I'm counting the minutes to the green flag," said Johnson, a three-time NBA All-Star.
 
The invitation came from raceway president and fellow Cal alum Steve Page.
 
“Kevin Johnson is a true sports legend in Northern California and he holds a special place in the hearts of Cal basketball fans,” Page said. “We’re very excited to have Mayor Johnson with us for the INDYCAR weekend and to have him play a big part in the event festivities.”
 
Johnson, a two-time All-Pac-10 player, was inducted into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame in March. 
He was elected to office in 2008 and re-elected in 2012. He is the first African-American and native Sacramentan to hold the position. 

Twenty IZOD IndyCar Series drivers are scheduled to test at the raceway Aug. 17. The 9 a.m.-5 p.m. session is open to the public and free.