Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan - OpUp on Emirates (SEA->DXB)

Earlier this week, we were on a SEA->DXB flight and got an op up from Y to J after we had boarded.
I'm curious to know why/how we were on the upgrade list and high enough to be upgraded - could it be because:
1. We booked our tickets back in January
2. I am an Alaska Airlines MVP Gold and they are now partners.
3. Our next segment (DXB->COK) was in paid J class

Like most people here, I'm a huge fan of free upgrades and would love to know how to get higher on that list in the future :)

Curious about a few things. Are you silver or gold Skywards? What is the first letter of your last name?

Last name starts with a U and no, neither of us were Skywards gold or silver..

Probably #3.