The term 'was noncommittal' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: 'hedged' (6 letters) and 'straddled' (9 letters). Both terms refer to a person's reluctance to commit to a particular opinion or decision. To 'HEDGE' is to avoid making a definite statement, while to 'STRADDLE' is to take a middle ground between two opposing positions. In both cases, the person is not taking a clear stance on an issue.