Former NBA MVP Derrick Rose served as the Grand Marshal for NASCAR’s Chicago In-Season Challenge on 6 July. Rose said he accepted the honorary role because of his children’s interest in cars and noted that fellow Chicago sports icon Michael Jordan’s recent involvement in stock-car racing added to his enthusiasm. The appearance drew additional local sports star power, with Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball and Chicago Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts also spotted at the temporary street circuit. NASCAR used the high-profile guests to promote the event as it prepared to start Sunday evening’s race through downtown Chicago.