The University of Maine released its 2005-06 women’s basketball schedule Thursday and it includes a handful of big-time nonconference opponents.

First-year head coach Ann McInerney will lead the Black Bears against the likes of Mississippi State, Michigan, George Washington and Mississippi, along with Holy Cross, Dartmouth, Rhode Island, Rider, Brown and Kennesaw State (Ga.).

“We’re really excited about this year’s schedule,” McInerney said.

UMaine opens the season with a Nov. 18 game at Rider. The Bears home opener is Nov. 24 against Kennesaw State in the Dead River Co. Classic.