A new 3-on-3 league offers a condensed format, some of the best W.N.B.A. players and a made-for-TV approach that aims to bring viewers close to the action.

It’s just an exciting time for women basketball in general with just the trajectory that we’re on,’ Natasha Cloud said. ‘This is another elite level to keep us home stateside and be adequately paid to do so.

The Unrivaled basketball league will play its first games, airing on TNT, on Friday. It's poised to capitalize on growing national interest in women's sports.