I feel like GA's involvement was seriously underplayed, and even made to look like a more valid option than the others.

I think I know why: The author Christina Farr is really good friends with the growth/community manager of GA - Olivia Clement.

They even have a club together (Ladies Who Vino): http://i.imgur.com/JJsUmTw.png

This really seems like a problem with collusion among press and tech companies in the valley. Tough luck for anyone not included.