Shawn Mendes -- Great Canadian Showdown ... I Want Bieber on The Hardwood

Shawn Mendes says he wants to take Justin Bieber one-on-one on the basketball court ... and it's got all the makings of a great Canadian battle.

Our photog caught up with Shawn in NYC Thursday night and brought up the comparison many have made between him and Justin. Both are good looking, Canadian and love to ball out.

Shawn seems confident he could hold up against JB ... check out the clip to see what he says gives him the advantage.