Edmonton Stingers announce co-owner James Burns has died
Posted August 4, 2026 6:00 pm.
The Edmonton Stingers announced on Tuesday that Co-Owner and Managing Partner James F. C. Burns, better known as Jamie, has died at 71.
The Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) team said that Burns “was the heart of our organization”, noting that he was part of the franchise from the very beginning.
“Those who had the privilege of knowing Jamie will remember him not only for his exceptional leadership, but also for his generosity, integrity, and genuine care for people. He inspired everyone around him through his humility, optimism, and unwavering belief in those he worked alongside. His impact on our players, coaches, staff, partners, and fans was immeasurable. As Board Chair of the CEBL, he was instrumental in helping the league grow and reach new heights,” read a statement from Tank Vander, co-owner & managing partner, on behalf of the entire Edmonton Stingers family.
Vander would go on to say, “On behalf of the Edmonton Stingers organization, we extend our deepest condolences to Jamie’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We mourn alongside you while celebrating a life that made a profound and lasting difference to so many. Jamie’s legacy will live on through the organization he helped build, the relationships he nurtured, and the countless lives he touched. While he will be deeply missed, his vision, values, and spirit will forever remain a part of the Edmonton Stingers.”
Support for the Stingers was shown on social media following their announcement.
We are saddened to learn of the passing of Edmonton Stingers owner Jamie Burns.
— Winnipeg Sea Bears (@wpgseabears) August 4, 2026
Our thoughts are with the Burns family and the entire Stingers organization during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/zyuSEYNrSg
❤️
— CEBL (@CEBLeague) August 4, 2026
The Canadian Elite Basketball League is deeply saddened by the passing of Jamie Burns, Chair of our Board of Directors and Co-Owner and Managing Partner on the Edmonton Stingers.
Jamie helped shape our league from its earliest days, guiding with vision and care. That vision… pic.twitter.com/yYiSRAUamL
