WORTH NOTING ON TV

* WEDNESDAY

Hoop Dreams (PBS, 8-11 p.m.): Originally conceived as a public-television project, this documentary about two inner-city teens was instead released theatrically in 1994. Now, after garnering critical praise and popular appeal, the film makes its debut on the small screen.

The film follows the daily lives of Arthur Agee Jr. and William Gates, two young basketball players who dream of playing in the NBA. As they pursue their goals on the court, other issues come into play: academic requirements, family commitments, and financial circumstances.

Following at 11 p.m. is ''A Hoop Dreams Reunion,'' a half-hour update on Agee, Gates, and their families, plus interviews with the filmmakers.

* FRIDAY

Family Matters (ABC, 8-8:30 p.m.): Two actors are giving ABC some extra mileage tonight as they undertake multiple roles. In ''Family Matters,'' Jaleel White plays three characters - Steve Urkel, Stefan Urquelle, and Myrtle Urkel. Then, on ''Hangin' With Mr. Cooper'' at 9:30 p.m., Mark Curry plays both Mark Cooper and Grandpa.

Wall $treet Week With Louis Rukeyser (PBS, 8:30-9 p.m. EDT): The entertaining and informative money show celebrates its 25th anniversary. This live, black-tie show from the New-York Historical Society commemorates the first broadcast of ''Wall $treet Week'' - on Nov. 20, 1970, at Maryland Public Television. Since then Louis Rukeyser has hosted more than 1,260 programs with more than 880 guests, and written every word of his witty opening commentaries.

Larry King Live (CNN, 9-11 p.m. EDT): The nine Republican presidential candidates meet at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., for direct questions from Larry King and open discussion of the issues. The event takes place before an audience of 3,000 Florida Republican Party delegates, who vote in Florida's straw poll over the weekend.

Please check local listings for these programs.