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Simmons shrugs off Celtics fans' taunts

Ben Simmons has shrugged off taunts from rabid Boston Celtics fans and fresh barbs from rival NBA Rookie of the Year candidate Donovan Mitchell.

Simmons and his Philadelphia 76ers were soundly beaten 117-101 by the Celtics in game one of their Eastern Conference semi-final series on Monday at Boston's TD Garden arena.

Celtics fans harassed Simmons throughout the game, including chanting "not a rookie" when the Australian was shooting free throws and during other parts of the game.

"I don't care," Simmons told reporters.

"It doesn't affect me at all."

Simmons is favourite to win the Rookie of the Year Award after a record-breaking first year playing in the league, although Mitchell, Celtics fans, former NBA players and US media commentators have questioned whether he should be eligible.