The numbers don't quite add up, but the final results might be just what the Lobos are hoping for.

The University of New Mexico was No. 2 in the country in the Ratings Percentage Index (RPI). It was also second in strength of schedule. It won the regular-season title and the conference tournament title in the highest rated league in the nation, the Moutain West.

But somehow those 1s and 2s ended up earning the Lobos a 3-seed, and a matchup with 12-seeded Harvard, in this week's NCAA tournament. Tip-off is set for 7:50 p.m. on Thursday on TNT in the West Region.

UNM had hoped for a second or higher seed after beating UNLV in the MWC Championship over the weekend. Said head coach Steve Alford, still wearing a championship net around his neck: "We've got to be in the talks (for a top-two seed).

The Lobos faithful undoubtedly feel slighted. They likely wonder what else could have been done. The answer is probably not much. UNM played as well as it could be expected to through 29 wins versus five losses, and it still wasn't enough to convince the NCAA selection committee to place the Lobos on the top lines.

UNM beat six tournament teams and lost against two. They also split with UNLV and San Diego State during the conference season. The Lobos built a strong resume, but ultimately it wasn't enough to overtake Duke, Georgetown, Miami (Fl.) or Ohio State as a second seed. UNM probably never was in serious consideration for a No. 1 seed.

Still, the committee didn't actually disrespect the Lobos. It did UNM a favor, beginning with Harvard (19-9). The Crimson is 1-5 against the RPI's top 100.

With a win, UNM would get a streaky Arizona team or a friendly matchup with Belmont. Should the Lobos advance to their first Sweet 16, they would likely face OSU, the weakest of the second seeds.

The Lobos are making their 14th tournament appearance. They are 8-14 in the big event. Alford is 5-6 as a head coach.

Examining the numbers and scrutinizing the seeding is a pastime for pundits and a discussion for fans. For the Lobos, any disappointment is temporary and minor, and preparation for the Ivy League champs is now paramount.

Ultimately, UNM is a high seed with a favorable draw. Which is all any team can ask for.