Anyone who’s followed the Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings will immediately recognize former Riverkings players Lucas Whitehead, Francesco Denti, and Anthony Bagnole. Each currently playing for Purdue Northwest’s ACHA D1 team and a factor in the Pride’s march to Nationals. While Whitehead and Denti are freshmen, Bagnole is in his second season. The Pride finished the 2025-2026 season 16-12-4 and ended up ranked 16th nationally. If you watched these three in Wisconsin Rapids, none of this comes as a surprise. Whitehead’s poise, Denti’s edge, and Bagnole’s relentless motor were hallmarks of their junior careers. Now, at the collegiate level, those same traits are shaping PNW’s competitiveness shift by shift.
Nationals Matchup
For 40 minutes PNW matched Missouri State stride for stride, but the third period belonged to the Bears.
Missouri State broke the scoreless tie just 36 seconds into the final frame, then added insurance at 9:32. Two late empty-netters stretched the margin, but the game was far closer than the scoreboard suggests.
The Riverkings organization takes immense pride in its success both on and off the ice, and earning a spot at Nationals is an accomplishment every player should hold their head high about. Whitey and Dents both made their mark in the final game, while Bags, sidelined by injury, was forced to watch from the bench instead of battling with his teammates.
Even so, the story isn’t finished. We fully expect to see all three back on the national stage next season, stronger, hungrier, and ready to lead the charge.