Bring the Jets Back to Winnipeg

From the Winnipeg Sun:

Without saying a word, Jim Balsillie extinguished any notion a former hockey team might find its way home soon.

Balsillie, the Research in Motion co-CEO who is currently engaged in a much-publicized court battle with the National Hockey League regarding the US$212.5 million purchase and subsequent relocation of the Phoenix Coyotes to southern Ontario, fielded business questions from students and faculty in a room packed with local media at the Asper School of Business yesterday.

Hockey questions need not apply, though.

The BlackBerry boss passed up on -- or wasn't interested in -- an opportunity to introduce himself to Winnipeg hockey fans by avoiding questions about the NHL and Winnipeg's chances in his hour-long presentation.

"Come on, guys," he said after one of the attempts.
...

Twice faced with queries regarding the possibility of him bringing the Coyotes to Winnipeg (should an Arizona court grant him custody in the bankruptcy case), Balsillie laughed nervously and rolled his eyes, moving on by simply taking another question from the small gathering.

To be fair, the media invite issued by the University of Manitoba did indicate only questions relating to the award would be accepted.

Despite the elephant with the hockey stick in the room, students at the Asper School of Business thought Balsillie handled the situation well.

"I didn't think it was the time or place to talk about it," said Brian Ingram. "He's here to receive an award that has to do with business, so he's in the right to avoid the question. He's never once said he's going to move the team to Winnipeg ... why would he have to answer questions about something he's never said he's going to do?"