Sonoma tabs Sacramento mayor as grand marshal

Kevin Johnson has proven his ball-handling skills on both the college and NBA hardwood. He's also shown he wields a mean gavel as mayor of Sacramento.

When the IZOD IndyCar Series visits Sonoma in a few week, Mayor Johnson will show whether he has what it takes to fire up a full field of Indy cars.

Johnson, who gained national prominence for his exploits on the basketball court, as a four-year starter at the University of California and then during a stellar 12-year NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Phoenix Suns, will be the grand marshal of the GoPro Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma.

"The raceway in Sonoma has an international reputation for hosting world-class events and this year's GoPro Indy Grand Prix continues that rich tradition," said Johnson. "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!"

Johnson was named grand marshal at the invitation of 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," said Page. "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."