BASKETBALL players that were subjected to racial abuse have received a kind-hearted donation.

David Mpondo, Julius van Sauers and Marc Kwedi, were victims of racist attacks within weeks of joining the Glasgow Rocks.

As well as having to move home following the series of incidents, the trio’s car was vandalised with its tyres slashed and windscreen smashed with a hammer.

Coach for the team, Gareth Murray, confirmed that the players have settled into their new home without any hassle but their initial welcome had a major impact on them and the rest of the club.

But bosses at Glasgow-based Intelligent Car Leasing have handed the keys to a brand-new VW T-Roc car for the players, solving any transport problems following the attacks.

Martin Brown, managing director of Intelligent Car Leasing, said: “The reports of what these players went through really hit home.

“That sort of mindless behaviour is totally unacceptable and not the Glasgow we know, love and work towards achieving. We want to show a better side of our great city.

“We’re providing the vehicle with all expenses taken care of for a three-year period. As well as getting to and from training sessions we hope the players use the car to explore as much of the city as possible.”

David Mpondo added: “We’re overwhelmed by this generosity. We can only say a big thank you to Martin and his company for getting us back on the road. We’re all hugely appreciative and their action certainly further confirms that whoever was responsible is in the minority.

“These bad first experiences have been overshadowed by a wave of positivity from so many people here in Glasgow.”